Large Bowel Obstruction after Colonoscopy; A Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Colonoscopy is a common procedure for diagnosing and treating colorectal conditions.
• Major complications include postpolypectomy bleeding and perforation.
• Colon obstruction is a rare but serious complication.

Observation:

• A 56-year-old male presented with lower abdominal pain and underwent colonoscopy.
• Colonoscopy revealed diverticulosis and sessile polyps in the sigmoid colon, with biopsies taken.
• Immediately post-procedure, the patient developed severe abdominal pain, distension, and high-pitched bowel sounds.

Findings:

• Abdominal radiography showed multiple colonic air-fluid levels, indicative of obstruction.
• A second colonoscopy revealed sigmoid colon edema and spasm at the biopsy sites, hindering scope passage.
• The colonoscope successfully decompressed the colon by suctioning trapped air.

Implications:

• This case highlights colon obstruction as a rare complication of colonoscopy.
• Conservative management with a second colonoscopy can effectively resolve this complication.
• Endoscopic decompression may prevent the need for surgical intervention in such cases.