Abstract

RODRIGUEZ FAJARDO, Jorge E et al. A ruptured spleen following colonoscopy is a rare, but potentially lethal complication. Rev Col Gastroenterol [online]. 2012, vol.27, n.2, pp.114-118. ISSN 0120-9957.

Colonoscopy is the paramount diagnostic tool for polyps and lesions in the colon and rectum. Although, the most common cause of complications are bleeding and perforations, diagnostic colonoscopy generally has a low incidence of complications. Less common complications include pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum and splenic injuries. We describe a clinical case of a spleen injury following colonoscopy in the colorectal surgery section of the Army Hospital and Nueva Granada University in Bogotá, Colombia. This splenic injury was discovered 48 hours after surgery. Splenic injury could be considered a very unusual cause of abdominal pain following colonoscopy but it could potentially be dangerous. A CT scan is a remarkable diagnostic tool but it is not considered to be useful for deciding on surgical treatment. Clinical observation with follow up, IV fluids, transfusions and antibiotics is one treatment option. Splenectomy is the most common option found in our review. Clinical suspicion and early diagnosis are the cornerstones for avoiding morbidity and mortality in this rare endoscopic complication.

Keywords : Spleen; colonoscopy; splenectomy; splenic injury.

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