Prolonged ileus lasting more than 72 hours is commonly associated with which condition?

Prolonged ileus lasting more than 72 hours is often associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). This condition is characterized by the development of numerous polyps in the lining of the colon and rectum, which can lead to various complications, including obstruction or strictures. In patients with FAP, the extensive polyps can interfere with normal bowel motility and contribute to the occurrence of an ileus.

While ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, and cholecystitis can also lead to bowel issues and may cause ileus, they typically have different underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and are often associated with other complications such as infection or inflammation rather than the specific impact of multiple adenomatous polyps that characterize FAP. Hence, prolonged ileus is more commonly associated with the obstruction due to the changes brought about by FAP as compared to the other listed conditions.