Management of Iatrogenic Colonoscopic Perforations: A 5-Year Retrospective Analysis of Predictive Factors and...

Iatrogenic colonic perforation (ICP) is a rare but serious complication of colonoscopy. Its incidence varies according to whether the procedure is diagnostic or therapeutic. Although surgery has traditionally been the cornerstone of treatment, advances in endoscopic techniques-particularly clip application-have provided less invasive alternatives. This study aimed to present the clinical characteristics, management strategies, and outcomes of ICP in a high-volume tertiary center, with a particular focus on the efficacy and limitations of endoscopic clip closure.

In this retrospective study, all patients diagnosed with ICP between 2019 and 2024 at Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital were evaluated. Among 87,526 colonoscopies performed during this period, 42 patients with ICP were included. Patients were classified according to whether colonoscopy was performed for diagnostic or therapeutic indications. Endoscopic clip closure was attempted in 14 patients and was successful in 8 of them (57.1%). Surgical intervention was performed in 34 patients, either after failed endoscopic management or as the primary treatment.

ICP developed more frequently during diagnostic procedures (69%). The sigmoid colon (57.1%) was the most common site of perforation, and most perforations were intraperitoneal (81%). Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics did not differ significantly between the diagnostic and therapeutic indication groups ( P >0.05). Successful endoscopic clip closure was associated with early diagnosis, good bowel preparation, and perforation size <2 cm. Patients treated endoscopically had shorter times to oral intake and shorter hospital stays compared with those treated surgically.

Endoscopic clip application is an effective treatment option for carefully selected ICP cases with early recognition, favorable local conditions, and small, localized defects. However, surgery remains essential in large perforations, delayed diagnoses, or when clip closure fails. Our findings provide real-world data on the role and limitations of standard clip closure in a resource-limited tertiary center and support guideline-based, individualized decision-making for ICP management.