Surgical management of incarcerated cecostomy intussusception following refractory acute colonic pseudo-obstruction

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO), or Ogilvie's syndrome, is a rare but serious condition of colonic dilation without mechanical obstruction. Management becomes increasingly complex in patients with significant baseline comorbidities. We describe a 69-year-old female with extensive comorbidities who presented with acute on chronic hypoxic respiratory failure due to influenza pneumonia. During a prolonged ICU course, she developed progressive abdominal distension and was diagnosed with ACPO refractory to conservative and pharmacologic management. The patient was taken to surgery where a cecostomy was matured. Subsequently, she developed an incarcerated cecostomy intussusception. Surgical exploration revealed chronic right colon dilation and cecal prolapse, prompting a right hemicolectomy with end-ileostomy. This case highlights the role of stepwise surgical intervention in refractory ACPO, particularly in medically complex patients. While cecostomy may serve as a temporizing measure, complications such as intussusception may necessitate definitive resection. A tailored surgical approach is essential for optimizing outcomes.