Intestinal adhesions

A 65-year-old woman presents to the emergency department due to severe abdominal pain. Three months ago, the patient underwent uncomplicated abdominal surgery to resect a large uterine fibroid. Past surgical history is notable for a C-section and cholecystectomy. Temperature is 37.2°C (99.0°F), pulse is 100/min, respirations are 22/min, and blood pressure is 110/60 mm Hg. On physical examination, high pitched bowel sounds are heard on auscultation and there is guarding and diffuse abdominal tenderness with palpation. A CT of the abdomen and pelvis shows dilated loops of the small bowel with a transition point. What is the cause of this patient’s current disorder?