[Acute secondary pseudo-obstruction of the colon (Ogilvie syndrome): experiences with endoscopic therapy]

Twenty-seven patients with acute secondary colonic pseudoobstruction have been studied before and after endoscopic decompression of the colon. 19 patients were treated by single endoscopic decompression and 8 patients who had, or were expected to have, recurrent pseudoobstruction were treated by endoscopy-assisted introduction of a double-lumen tube into the colon. 17 out of 27 patients had massive dilatation of the right hemicolon. 19 patients completely retained stools and had a dilated colon the day before the endoscopic treatment, while 8 out of 27 patients still had passage of stool despite threatening dilatation of the colon. Initial decompression of the colon was achieved in all patients with both techniques, but cecal perforation developed in 1 patient. Normal colonic function returned in all patients who underwent single endoscopic decompression within three days, and in all patients treated with a colonic tube within 4 days (mean value). The success of endoscopic therapy of acute pseudoobstruction could not be explained by drugs administered before and after the endoscopic treatment. It is concluded that endoscopic decompression of the colon is an effective treatment for acute pseudoobstruction. Repeated colonoscopic decompression in refractory cases may be avoided by endoscopy-assisted placement of large caliber drainage tubes.