Ileus is a partial or complete non-mechanical blockage of the small and/or large intestine. Obstruction of the intestine due to its being paralyzed. The paralysis does not need to be complete to cause ileus, but the intestine must be so inactive that food cannot pass through it, which leads to blockage of the intestine. Ileus commonly follows some types of surgery. Sometimes after abdominal surgery things just shut down. This can even happen after things have started up. This is why they don't want you to have food until they're sure your new plumbing has kicked in. We call it 'fart watch.'
If you're having bowel sounds that's a good thing as bowel sounds aren't usually present with ileus. Ask your surgeon about chewing gum. Some people have said that helps to start things moving along. But moving as much as possible is the main gut motivator.
kathy
