This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Surgery
Prologed Post-op ileus is best treated by - 
Select and explain. 
A. Long tube insertion, B. Calcium pentonthenate, C. Laporotomy and exploration, D. Peristaltic stimulants
C: Laporotomy and exploration
Answer: C: Laporotomy and exploration 
Explanation: Most patients develop a transient ileus after a major abdominal operation. Most of these cases resolve within 3 to 5 days.
Conditions like-extensive operative manipulation, major small bowel injury, heavy narcotic use, intraabdominal infection and pancreatitis - can prolong the ileus to 5 to 7 days. Ileus prolnged beyond this period is viewed with suspicion.


Management of post op. ileus

The essence of treatment is prevention, with the use of nasogastric suction and restriction of oral intake until bowel sounds and passage of flatus return.
Electrolyte abnormality, if any is corrected.
A battery of laboratory tests are conducted to look for primary cause, which if found is treated.
"If paralytic ileus is prolonged and threatens life, a laparotomy should be considered to exclude a hidden cause and facilitate bowel decompression" - Bailey