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Colonoscopy preparation complicated by Mallory-Weiss tear
1Department of Medicine, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Ill.
Southern Medical Journal
|March 1, 1992
Abstract:
I have reported two cases of Mallory-Weiss tear occurring after the patients drank an oral electrolyte/polyethylene glycol preparation before colonoscopy. Only two other such cases have been previously reported.
Insights
Mallory-Weiss tears can occur after drinking oral electrolyte/polyethylene glycol solutions before a colonoscopy. This rare complication, previously reported only twice, highlights a potential risk associated with bowel preparation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopy
Background:
- Colonoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure.
- Bowel preparation using oral electrolyte/polyethylene glycol solutions is standard.
Observation:
- Two cases of Mallory-Weiss tear were observed following oral electrolyte/polyethylene glycol preparation.
- This complication is exceedingly rare, with only two prior reported instances.
Findings:
- The ingestion of oral electrolyte/polyethylene glycol solutions may precipitate Mallory-Weiss tears.
- A potential causal link between bowel preparation agents and esophageal mucosal tears is suggested.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of this rare but serious complication.
- Further investigation may be warranted to understand the mechanism and incidence of this association.