[Ogilvie syndrome treated by ileostomy]

Ogilvie's syndrome (acute pseudoobstruction of the colon) is characterized by acute massive dilatation of the caecum and right colon without organic obstruction. If untreated, distension may cause perforation, peritonitis, and death. Colonoscopic decompression of the colon is the treatment of choice and should be attempted cautiously as soon as the diagnosis is made. If colonoscopy is unavailable or unsuccessful, double-tubed ileostomy and enemas in the anal tube of the stoma is a safe and effective form of treatment.