[Ogilvie's syndrome. Therapeutic efficacy of cecostomy]

Ogilvie's syndrome is an uncommon clinical situation, which was first described in 1948. It is characterized by an acute colonic massive dilatation without evidence of organic obstruction. Association with extracolonic disease is a nearly constant feature. Clinically, the syndrome manifests itself as an acute abdominal distention the cecum being the site of greatest dilatation. This situation is rapidly progressive and, if untreated, may cause cecal necrosis and perforation. Treatment should be instituted early, beginning with medical measures, followed by surgery if no improvement is seen. We report a case of Ogilvie's syndrome, and discuss the treatment procedures.