A case of small bowel obstruction caused by konjac

Abstract While postoperative adhesions, hernias, and tumors are common causes of small bowel obstruction (SBO), food-induced obstruction is rare. Konjac (Amorphophallus konjac)–related SBO is exceptionally uncommon, with only a few cases documented in the English literature. We present the case of a man in his 50s who developed abdominal pain during breakfast. After conservative management at a local clinic failed, he was referred to our hospital. Abdominal computed tomography indicated SBO of unknown etiology. Emergency laparotomy revealed four connected pieces of konjac obstructing the small intestine. The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged on postoperative day 8. This case represents a rare instance of konjac-induced SBO. Given the rising global consumption of konjac products—especially in Western countries—clinicians should consider konjac ingestion as a potential cause of food-induced bowel obstruction.