Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2026

Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System
Published on: October 16, 2013
[Volvulus of the small intestine, a rare complication during laxative period before colonoscopy]
1Internistisch-gastroenterologische Praxis, Hannover. dreskersting@t-online.de
History And Clinical Findings:
A 69-year-old patient was hospitalized 16 h after investigation of the colon (screening colonoscopy), suffering from abdominal pain, which had started during the laxative period the day before colonoscopy.
Investigations:
Clinical and technical investigations showed signs of a peritonitis.
Treatment And Course:
By laparotomy a volvulus of the small intestine was found, caused by adhesions after appendectomy years before. A resection of a part of the small intestine got necessary, there were no problems during the postoperative course.
Conclusions:
If pain appears during the laxative period before colonoscopy, rare complications like volvulus of the small intestine should be considered.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and solid...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Other Laxatives
Osmotic or saline laxatives, like magnesium hydroxide or milk of...
