Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis
Published on: October 29, 2014
Role of surgery in antibiotic-induced pseudomembranous enterocolitis
J B Morris1, R M Zollinger, T A Stellato
1Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Ohio.
Abstract:
With the increased use of prophylactic and broad-spectrum antibiotics, pseudomembranous colitis has emerged as a significant clinical problem. Management with specific anti-Clostridium difficile therapy (vancomycin or metronidazole) has reduced mortality to less than 2%. Nevertheless, the disease may progress to a fulminant toxic colitis or colonic perforation. Additionally, another subset of patients will present with a dramatic clinical picture, suggesting acute peritonitis, eventuating in unnecessary laparotomy. This report reviews both the medical and surgical literature during the past 15 years of patients treated for pseudomembranous colitis. Analysis of this clinical data has provided us with the opportunity to both define the role of surgery in this disorder and illustrate the necessity for a combined medical and surgical cooperative approach in the early management of this iatrogenic disease.
Insights
Pseudomembranous colitis, often caused by antibiotics, can be severe. Early medical and surgical collaboration is crucial for managing this iatrogenic condition and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Pseudomembranous colitis is a significant clinical issue linked to antibiotic use.
- While specific therapies reduce mortality, severe complications like toxic colitis or perforation can occur.
- Some patients present with symptoms mimicking acute peritonitis, leading to unnecessary surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medical and surgical literature on pseudomembranous colitis over 15 years.
- To define the role of surgical intervention in managing this condition.
- To highlight the importance of a combined medical-surgical approach.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of medical and surgical literature.
- Analysis of clinical data from patients treated for pseudomembranous colitis.
- Focus on the past 15 years of published research.
Main Results:
- Specific anti-Clostridium difficile therapies have reduced mortality rates.
- The disease can progress to severe, life-threatening complications.
- A subset of patients may undergo unnecessary laparotomy due to diagnostic challenges.
Conclusions:
- Surgery has a defined role in managing specific cases of pseudomembranous colitis.
- A cooperative medical and surgical strategy is essential for early and effective management.
- This collaborative approach is vital for addressing this iatrogenic disease.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:25Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
01:26Endoscopic 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...
01:21Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics