Management of perforation due to colonoscopy

Six patients who underwent emergency laparotomy for perforations secondary to colonoscopy or polypectomy are described. Three patients had the laceration closed primarily, two required colostomy, and one needed resection. When contamination is minimal and the colon is mechanically prepared, primary closure without diversion is the treatment of choice. Colostomy is rarely indicated and may lead to increased morbidity, in view of the need for closure. However, resection should be considered if suspicion of carcinoma is great. Factors that contribute to perforation include sedation, forceful introduction of the colonoscope, inadequate equipment for hemorrhage control, and prolonged application of electrocoagulation to the colonic wall.