A 32-year-old female undergoes an appendectomy without complications, but has markedly reduced bowel sounds and an absence of flatus or defecation during the immediate postoperative period. Which of the following mechanisms best explains this decrease in bowel sounds?
A) Decreased sympathetic activity to the gut
B) Increased activity of the gastrocolic reflex
C) Increased parasympathetic activity to the gut
D) Increased plasma acetylcholine concentration
E) Increased plasma norepinephrine concentration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decrease in bowel sounds, absence of flatus, or defecation in the immediate postoperative period is due to an increase in sympathetic activity, which is mediated by norepinephrine. This leads to a decrease in gastrointestinal motility, explaining the patient's symptoms. Increased plasma norepinephrine concentration is associated with increased sympathetic activity.

A 32-Year-Old Female Undergoes an Appendectomy Without Complications, but Has