Treatment of acute nontoxic megacolon during colonoscopy: tube placement versus simple decompression

Endoscopic Management of Colonic Obstruction

Large bowel obstruction is a serious event that occurs in approximately 25% of all intestinal obstructions. It is attributed to either benign, malignant, functional (pseudo-obstruction), or mechanical conditions. Benign etiologies of colonic obstructions include colon volvulus, anastomotic strictures, radiation injury, ischemia, inflammatory processes such as Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, bezoars, and intussusception.

Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Colonic Pseudo-obstruction (ACPO)

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Acute Colonic Pseudo-obstruction (ACPO) is a cause of large intestinal dilation and obstruction without any physical transition point. It remains difficult to diagnose and treat. We review the recent updates on diagnosis and management of ACPO.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent guidelines have posited that conservative management can be tried in most cases of ACPO, but that early decompression and surgery should be considered. Use of neostigmine is still a viable option but there is also promising data on pyridostigmine as well as prucalopride. Resolution of ACPO should be followed by daily use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to help prevent recurrence. ACPO warrants early and accurate diagnosis with exclusion of alternate causes of large bowel dilation. Conservative management can be attempted for 48-72 h in those with cecal diameters < 12 cm and without signs of peritonitis and perforation. Early escalation of management should be attempted with neostigmine followed by endoscopy and/or surgery as needed, given that longer periods of dilation are associated with worse outcomes. There is promising new evidence for use of pyridostigmine and prucalopride, but further trials are needed prior to incorporating them into regular use. Finally, studies are lacking regarding prevention of ACPO after initial resolution.

Acute Colonic Pseudo-Obstruction: Colonoscopy versus Neostigmine First?

INTRODUCTION

Neostigmine (NEO) and decompressive colonoscopy (COL) are two efficacious treatment modalities for acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO). We hypothesize that a COL first strategy is associated with better outcomes compared to a NEO first strategy.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis was performed from 2013 to 2020. Patients ≥18 y with a diagnosis of ACPO were included. The outcome was a composite measure of acute operative intervention, 30-day readmission with ACPO, and 30-day ACPO-related mortality. A P-value of ≤ 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

RESULTS

Of 910 encounters in 849 patients, 50 (5.5%) episodes of ACPO in 39 patients were identified after exclusion of one patient with colon perforation on presentation. The median (interquartile range) age was 68 (62-84) y. NEO and COL were administered in 21 and 25 episodes, respectively. In 16 (32%) episodes, no NEO or COL was administered. When patients were given NEO first, COL or additional NEO was required in 12/18 (67%) compared with a COL first strategy where a second COL and/or NEO was given in 5/16 (32%) (P = 0.05). Both strategies had similar outcomes (NEO, 4/18 versus COL, 4/16, P = 0.85). Twenty-two (44%) episodes had an early intervention (≤48 h) with NEO and/or COL. There was no difference in outcome between those that received an early intervention and those who did not (5/22 versus 5/28, P = 0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

For patients failing conservative measures, a COL first approach was associated with fewer subsequent interventions, but with similar composite outcomes compared to a NEO first approach. Early (≤48 h) intervention with NEO and/or COL was not associated with improved outcomes.

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline on the role of endoscopy in the management of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction and colonic volvulus

Colonic volvulus and acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO) are 2 causes of benign large-bowel obstruction. Colonic volvulus occurs most commonly in the sigmoid colon as a result of bowel twisting along its mesenteric axis. In contrast, the exact pathophysiology of ACPO is poorly understood, with the prevailing hypothesis being altered regulation of colonic function by the autonomic nervous system resulting in colonic distention in the absence of mechanical blockage. Prompt diagnosis and intervention leads to improved outcomes for both diagnoses. Endoscopy may play a role in the evaluation and management of both entities. The purpose of this document from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy's Standards of Practice Committee is to provide an update on the evaluation and endoscopic management of sigmoid volvulus and ACPO.

Colonic Decompression Reduces Proximal Acute Colonic Pseudo-obstruction and Related Symptoms

BACKGROUND

Colonoscopic decompression is performed in inpatients for management of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. Evidence for its efficacy is limited to small descriptive studies published before the use of neostigmine for acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. Furthermore, therapeutic end points were not defined.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to compare the effectiveness of colonic decompression with standard medical therapy (supportive and pharmacologic therapy) to standard medical therapy alone.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective, propensity-matched study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at a tertiary care center.

PATIENTS

Inpatients with first diagnosis of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction between 2000 and 2016 were selected.

INTERVENTIONS

The intervention group received colonic decompression as well as supportive and/or pharmacologic therapy. The control group did not receive colonic decompression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the resolution of overall colonic dilation on imaging 48 hours following colonic decompression or the initiation of standard medical therapy alone. Secondary outcomes included symptom improvement, colonic segment diameter percentage change, perforation, 30-day readmission, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The standard medical therapy and colonic decompression groups included 61 and 83 patients. Of the patients who underwent colonic decompression, 47.7% had complete resolution of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction versus 19.9% of patients who underwent standard medical therapy (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in mid or distal colon diameter reduction between groups. The 30-day readmission rate was 15.7% in the colonic decompression group versus 26.2% in the standard medical therapy group. No immediate adverse events were noted in either group. Thirty-day all-cause mortality was 8.4% for the colonic decompression group and 14.8% in the standard medical therapy group.

LIMITATIONS

The study was a retrospective review on a highly comorbid population.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonic decompression is effective compared to standard medical therapy alone for proximal colonic dilation or symptoms associated with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. On segmental analysis, colonic decompression does not provide any additional benefit over standard medical therapy in improving transverse or distal colonic dilation. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B32. LA DESCOMPRESIÓN COLÓNICA REDUCE LA PSEUDOOBSTRUCCIÓN COLÓNICA AGUDA PROXIMAL Y LOS SÍNTOMAS RELACIONADOS.: La descompresión colonica se realiza en pacientes hospitalizados para el tratamiento de la pseudoobstrucción colónica aguda. La evidencia de su eficacia se limita a pequeños estudios descriptivos antes del uso de neostigmina para la pseudoobstrucción colónica aguda. Además, los puntos finales terapéuticos no se definieron.El objetivo fue comparar la efectividad de la descompresión colónica mas el tratamiento médico estándar (tratamiento de apoyo y farmacológico) contra el tratamiento médico estándar solamente.Este es un estudio retrospectivo de propensión coincidente.El estudio se realizó en un centro de atención de tercer nivel.Pacientes hospitalizados con diagnóstico de pseudoobstrucción colónica aguda entre 2000 y 2016.El grupo de intervención recibió descompresión colónica, así como tratamiento de apoyo o farmacológica. El grupo control no recibió descompresión colónica.La medida de resultado primaria fue la resolución de la dilatación colónica general en la imagen 48 horas después de la descompresión colónica o el inicio del tratamiento médico estándar solo. Los resultados secundarios incluyeron mejoría de los síntomas, cambio porcentual en el diámetro del segmento colónico, perforación, reingreso a los 30 días y mortalidad por cualquier causa.La terapia médica estándar y los grupos de descompresión colónica incluyeron 61 y 83 pacientes, respectivamente. El 47,7% de los pacientes con descompresión colónica tuvieron una resolución completa de la pseudoobstrucción colónica aguda frente al 19,9% de los pacientes con terapia médica estándar (p < 0,001). No hubo diferencias significativas en la reducción del diámetro del colon medio o distal entre los grupos. La tasa de reingreso a los 30 días fue del 15,7% en el grupo de descompresión colónica frente al 26,2% en el grupo de tratamiento médico estándar. No se observaron eventos adversos inmediatos en ninguno de los dos grupos. La mortalidad por cualquier causa a los 30 días fue del 8.4% para la descompresión del colon y del 14.8% en los grupos de terapia médica estándar.El estudio fue una revisión retrospectiva en una población altamente comórbida.La descompresión colónica es efectiva en comparación con el tratamiento médico estándar solo para la dilatación del colon proximal o los síntomas asociados con la pseudoobstrucción colónica aguda. En el análisis segmentario, la descompresión colónica no proporciona ningún beneficio adicional sobre el tratamiento médica estándar para mejorar la dilatación colónica transversal o distal. Vea el resumen del video en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B32.

Secretory diarrhea and hypokalemia associated with colonic pseudo-obstruction: A case study and systematic analysis of the literature

BACKGROUND

Colonic pseudo-obstruction (CPO) is characterized by colonic distention in the absence of mechanical obstruction or toxic megacolon. Concomitant secretory diarrhea (SD) with hypokalemia (SD-CPO) due to gastrointestinal (GI) loss requires further characterization.

AIM

To perform a systematic review of SD-CPO, report a case study, and compare SD-CPO with classical CPO (C-CPO).

METHODS

We performed a search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Scopus for reports based on a priori criteria for CPO, SD and GI loss of potassium. An additional case at Mayo Clinic was included.

RESULTS

Nine publications met inclusion criteria, with a total of 14 cases. Six studies had high, three moderate, and our case high methodological quality. Median age was 74 years (66-97), with 2:1 male/female ratio. Kidney disease was present in 6/14 patients. Diarrhea was described as profuse, watery, or viscous in 10 patients. Median serum, stool, and urine potassium concentrations (mmol/L) were 2.4 (range: 1.9-3.1), 137 (100-180), and 17 (8-40), respectively. Maximal diameter of colon and cecum (median) were 10.2 cm and 10.5 cm, respectively. Conservative therapy alone was effective in five out of 14 patients. Median potassium supplementation was 124 mEq/d (40-300). Colonic decompression was effective in three out of six patients; one had a total colectomy; three out of 14 had died. The main differences between SD-CPO and C-CPO were lower responses to treatments: conservative measures (35.7% vs 73.6%, P=.01), neostigmine (17% vs 89.2%, P<.001), and colonic decompression (50% vs 82.4%, P=.02).

CONCLUSION

SD-CPO is a rare phenotype associated with increased fecal potassium and is more difficult to treat than C-CPO.

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction in pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction is an uncommon but potentially morbid complication of pregnancy. The aim of the study was to review a single institution's experience with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction in post-partum patients and develop an algorithm for management based on a literature review.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study where patients were identified over a 2-year period (1 December 2012 to 31 November 2014) by checking all deliveries in Christchurch Women's Hospital against diagnosis codes for bowel obstruction and ileus. Clinical records and radiology were then reviewed to identify those with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction and the management of these patients was reviewed.

RESULTS

Over the study period, seven patients were identified from 10,240 deliveries. Two patients required laparotomy and the rest resolved without surgical intervention. One patient was treated with neostigmine and three with erythromycin. One patient had an unsuccessful attempt at endoscopic decompression, however, symptoms resolved without further intervention following this. A management algorithm was developed based on the literature review.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction occurs in post-partum patients more frequently than suspected (one in 1500 deliveries). The management needs to be active with early correction of electrolyte abnormalities, avoidance of narcotic pain relief and early mobilization. Timely administration of neostigmine or endoscopic decompression can reduce the incidence of colonic ischaemia and perforation and the need for surgical intervention.

Acute colonic pseudoobstruction

Acute colonic pseudoobstruction (ACPO), often referred to as Ogilvie syndrome, is a clinical entity characterized by severe colonic distension (adult acute megacolon) in the absence of mechanical obstruction. It can result in abdominal ischemia and perforation if left untreated. This article discusses the epidemiology and current pathophysiologic theories of ACPO as well as the clinical presentation and diagnostic modalities utilized to identify the disease. In addition, this article describes the current treatment options for ACPO, which range from conservative medical therapy, therapeutic endoscopy, to subtotal colectomy.

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction

Background

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction is characterized by clinical and radiological evidence of acute large bowel obstruction in the absence of a mechanical cause. The condition usually affects elderly people with underlying co-morbidities, and early recognition and appropriate management are essential to reduce the occurrence of life-threatening complications.

Methods

A part-systematic review was conducted. This was based on key publications focusing on advances in management.

Results and conclusions

Although acute colonic dilatation has been suggested to result from a functional imbalance in autonomic nerve supply, there is little direct evidence for this. Other aetiologies derived from the evolving field of neurogastroenterology remain underexplored. The rationale of treatment is to achieve prompt and effective colonic decompression. Initial management includes supportive interventions that may be followed by pharmacological therapy. Controlled clinical trials have shown that the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine is an effective treatment with initial response rates of 60–90 per cent; other drugs for use in this area are in evolution. Colonoscopic decompression is successful in approximately 80 per cent of patients, with other minimally invasive strategies continuing to be developed. Surgery has thus become largely limited to those in whom complications occur. A contemporary management algorithm is provided on this basis.

Adynamic ileus and acute colonic pseudo-obstruction

Ileus and colonic pseudo-obstruction cause functional obstruction of intestinal transit, without mechanical obstruction, because of uncoordinated or attenuated intestinal muscle contractions. Ileus usually arises from an exaggerated intestinal reaction to abdominal surgery that is often exacerbated by numerous other conditions. Colonic pseudo-obstruction is induced by numerous metabolic disorders, drugs that inhibit intestinal motility, severe illnesses, and extensive surgery. It presents with massive colonic dilatation with variable, moderate small bowel dilatation. Both conditions are initially treated with supportive measures that include intravenous rehydration, correction of electrolyte abnormalities, discontinuation of antikinetic drugs, and treatment of other contributing disorders. Specific therapies for colonic pseudo-obstruction include neostigmine (an anticholinesterase) for pharmacologic colonic decompression and colonoscopic decompression.

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction: An uncommon condition with heterogeneous etiology and unpredictable outcome

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction (IPO) either acute or chronic is a condition including features of intestinal ileus in absence of mechanical obstruction. Our paper presents such a rare case of idiopathic IPO in a 53-year-old male patient with recurrent episodes of pseudo-obstruction, which were successfully resolved by anticholinesterase agents, motilin agonists or colonic decompression. However, the patient finally underwent total colectomy. Huge colonic dilatation was identified intraoperatively, while histology showed a neuropathic variant of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Etiologic mechanisms and current therapeutic methods are reviewed in this paper, which concludes that IPO is a condition in which conservative treatment usually fails. Total colectomy with ileoanal pouch may be the only solution in these situations.

Bowel obstruction and pseudo-obstruction

The gastroenterologist is frequently involved in the care of patients with bowel obstruction and pseudo-obstruction. In the case of obstruction, the central problem is determining which patients should be managed surgically. In both SBO and LBO, evidence of vascular compromise to the gut mandates surgical intervention. Most patients with pseudo-obstruction respond to conservative therapy or neostigmine. Endoscopic decompression is indicated in recalcitrant cases, with surgery reserved as a last resort.

Pseudo-obstruction in the critically ill

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by impairment of intestinal propulsion, which may resemble intestinal obstruction, in the absence of a mechanical cause. It may involve the small and/or the large bowel, and may present in acute, subacute or chronic forms. We have performed a systematic review of acute pseudo-obstruction, also referred to as Ogilvie's syndrome in the literature, and focused on proposed mechanisms, manifestations and management of post-surgery and critically ill patients who suffer from one or more underlying clinical conditions. The hallmark of the syndrome is massive intestinal distension, which is detected on clinical inspection and plain abdominal radiography. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, treatment focuses on preventing intestinal perforation, which is associated with an average 21% mortality rate.

Endoscopic Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Endoscopic therapy can be employed and may be useful in inflammatory bowel disease patients with dysplastic polyps, inflammatory strictures (enteric and biliary), bleeding, and for treatment of some complications of continent ileostomies. Dysplastic polyps can be removed endoscopically safely and effectively without resorting to colectomy, as long as there is no other detectable dysplasia in flat mucosa and complete removal can be assured (by biopsy of adjacent mucosa and close follow-up). Some colonic strictures in Crohn's disease can be dilated using endoscopes of graded caliber or with through-the-scope balloons, with or without stent placement. Endoscopy is most useful in dilating anastomotic strictures and less useful for long strictures in active inflammatory disease. Strictures in ulcerative colitis are suspicious for neoplasia and, if dilated at all, should be biopsied extensively and followed closely. We prefer colectomy to endoscopic dilatation for strictures in ulcerative colitis. Biliary endoscopy can be used to dilate strictures in primary sclerosing cholangitis and to sample these areas for malignancy. Although dilatation may improve morbidity and prolong survival, it may not prevent progression to cirrhosis. In cholangiocarcinomas, endoscopic dilatation with or without stents can offer palliation and perhaps be used to deliver photodynamic therapy. Injection and sclerotherapy can be employed in Crohn's disease bleeding from a discrete site. In obstructed continent ileostomies (both Kock pouches and pelvic ileoanal reservoirs), endoscopy can be employed effectively to both determine the cause of the obstruction and re-establish patency. We do not advocate endoscopic treatment of toxic megacolon because of the heightened risk of perforation. Endoscopic therapy of Crohn's fistulas is a possible emerging technology, but it has not been used in large cohorts of patients.

Gastrointestinal disorders of the critically ill. Systemic consequences of ileus

Ileus refers to the partial or complete blockage of the small and/or large intestine either by functional (adynamic or paralytic ileus) or mechanical bowel obstruction. The diffuse gastrointestinal dysmotility during functional and mechanical ileus may result in intestinal dilatation, increased luminal pressure and gut wall ischaemia which may lead to increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). Any type of ileus may promote abdominal fluid sequestration with severe systemic hypovolaemia, intestinal bacterial overgrowth with the evolution of bacterial translocation and systemic invasive infections and inflammation of the intestinal wall with concomitant release of cytokines and the development of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome. The most serious complications of ileus are mediated by an increase in IAP. Intra-abdominal hypertension has been found in up to 20% of critically ill patients and may lead to a broad pattern of systemic consequences with multiple organ dysfunction, including cardiovascular, hepatic, pulmonary, renal and neurological function. The abdominal compartment syndrome is an emergency condition which is defined as elevation of IAP above 20 to 25 mmHg and the presence of systemic consequences. Therapeutic considerations include the maintenance of adequate hydration status, avoidance of drugs known to impair intestinal perfusion, stimulation of gastric and intestinal motility and various nutritional aspects. Colonic tube placement after decompressive colonoscopy may be effective in reducing intestinal dilatation. In the abdominal compartment syndrome the 'open abdominal approach' with decompressive laparotomy by opening the peritoneal cavity and temporary abdominal closure is the therapy of choice.

Pseudo-obstruction in the critically ill

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by impairment of intestinal propulsion, which may resemble intestinal obstruction, in the absence of a mechanical cause. It may involve the small and/or the large bowel, and may present in acute, subacute or chronic forms. We have performed a systematic review of acute pseudo-obstruction, also referred to as Ogilvie's syndrome in the literature, and focused on proposed mechanisms, manifestations and management of post-surgery and critically ill patients who suffer from one or more underlying clinical conditions. The hallmark of the syndrome is massive intestinal distension, which is detected on clinical inspection and plain abdominal radiography. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, treatment focuses on preventing intestinal perforation, which is associated with an average 21% mortality rate.

Timing of colonoscopy: impact on length of hospital stay in patients with acute lower intestinal bleeding

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies suggest that urgent colonoscopic evaluation of massive lower intestinal bleeding (LIB) can reduce hospital length of stay (LOS). We sought to determine if time to colonoscopy impacts hospital LOS in patients admitted with all sources and severities of acute LIB.

METHODS

A total of 252 consecutive patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital with acute LIB were identified. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine independent predictors of hospital LOS. Time from admission to colonoscopy was analyzed as a time-varying covariate.

RESULTS

A total of 144 patients (57%) underwent an inpatient colonoscopy: 14 were done in <12 h, 55 in 12-24 h, 46 in 24-48 h, and 29 in >48 h. After controlling for the other independent correlates, earlier colonoscopy was significantly associated with a shorter hospital LOS (hazards ratio = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.5-2.6, p < 0.0001). The absence of visible blood or active bleeding at the time of colonoscopy was also independently related to a shorter hospital LOS (hazards ratio = 1.5, 95% = CI 1.1-2.0, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Time to colonoscopy is an independent predictor of hospital LOS. In a wide spectrum of patients with LIB, this reduction in hospital LOS seems to be primarily related to improved diagnostic yield rather than therapeutic interventions.

Manejo clínico de la seudoobstrucción aguda de colon en el enfermo hospitalizado: revisión sistemática de la bibliografía

Intestinal pseudoobstruction is a clinical syndrome characterized by impairment of intestinal propulsion, which may resemble intestinal obstruction, in the absence of a mechanical cause. It usually affects the colon but the small intestine may also be involved, and may present in acute, subacute or chronic forms. We have performed a systematic review of the acute form of pseudoobstruction, also referred to as Ogilvie's syndrome. We discuss proposed pathophysiological mechanisms, manifestations and management of this clinical condition in post-surgery and critically ill patients. The hallmark of the syndrome is massive intestinal distension, which is detected on clinical inspection and plain abdominal radiography. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, treatment has focussed on preventing intestinal perforation, which is associated with a 21% mortality rate.

Yield of dual endoscopy for positive fecal occult blood test

OBJECTIVES

Dual endoscopy is frequently performed on the same day in patients whose stools are found to be positive on fecal occult blood testing (FOBT). This is often done to localize the potential sources of GI bleed. The diagnostic yield of same day dual upper endoscopy (EGD) and lower endoscopy (colonoscopy) for the detection of positive FOBT is uncertain. In the era of cost-efficient medical practice, we investigated whether a more evidence-based and structured approach could be used to guide physicians to the workup of patients who present with positive FOBT.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of 309 patients, and 260 patients from this population met our inclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria included FOBT without acute GI hemorrhage, hematochezia, or melena. Patients were required to have had EGD and colonoscopy within the same day (<24 h).

RESULTS

Of 260 patients, a total of 135 (52%) patients had positive findings on colonoscopy and a total of 42 (16.1%) patients had positive findings on EGD. Sixteen (6.1%) had positive EGD and negative colonoscopy; 109 (42%) had positive colonoscopy and negative EGD; and 26 (10%) had positive findings on both EGD and colonoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonoscopy should be chosen as the initial procedure of choice in the evaluation of patients who present with positive FOBT. Same day dual endoscopy does not seem to be cost-effective.

Controlled transperitoneal percutaneous cecostomy as a therapeutic alternative to the endoscopic decompression for Ogilvie's syndrome

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, the so-called Ogilvie's syndrome, results in massive colonic dilation without mechanical obstruction. In most cases, a conservative treatment with or without endoscopic decompression is sufficient. In rare cases of relapses or failures, a cecostomy has to be performed. A surgical cecostomy is associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, a percutaneous cecostomy could be an interesting alternative treatment. We report the case of a 67-yr-old male with colonic pseudoobstruction for which both the conservative and the endoscopic treatments were unsuccessful. A percutaneous cecostomy was performed, and for the first time in this indication, a transperitoneal access was used with the help of nylon T-fasteners.

Yield of colonoscopy in patients with nonacute rectal bleeding: a multicenter database study of 1766 patients

OBJECTIVE

There are few data to guide the choice between colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy in patients with nonacute rectal bleeding, especially in younger age groups. Our aim was to determine the yield of colonoscopy for significant proximal large bowel disease in the absence of significant distal disease, with special reference to young patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of data collected prospectively in 1766 patients (median age 57 yr, 711 women). The endoscopic database (GI-Trac) contained 152 discrete fields for data input. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables independently associated with the presence of isolated significant proximal disease.

RESULTS

Young patients had a higher percentage of normal examinations than did older patients. The incidence of diverticular disease, small polyps, large polyps, and cancer rose with increasing age. No patient aged <40 yr had an isolated proximal cancer, but 7% had other significant isolated proximal disease. There was no overall association between age and significant proximal disease in the absence of significant distal disease (p = 0.66). The only variable associated with isolated proximal disease was anemia (odds ratio = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.11-2.93; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The yield of colonoscopy (beyond the range of sigmoidoscopy) for neoplasia is low in patients aged <40 yr, but other significant disease may be missed if age is the only criterion determining colonoscopy use.

Gastrointestinal problems in the chronically critically ill patient

In summary, a variety of gastrointestinal processes may occur in the chronically critically ill patient population, usually as consequence of the primary systemic process. The clinical presentation is frequently nonclassic and there often is a substantial delay in diagnosis, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality.

Radiographic changes after colonoscopic decompression for acute pseudo-obstruction

PURPOSE

Colonoscopy has been the principal tool for decompression in acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, known as Ogilvie's syndrome. The objectives of this study were to determine the immediate effect of colonoscopy on the cecal diameter (measured on supine radiographs) and to delineate possible correlations in the diameters of dilated segments of the colon.

METHODS

The charts and radiographs of 24 patients who had colonoscopic decompression for acute colonic pseudo-obstruction between 1992 and 1997 at the San Diego Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the University of California, San Diego Hospitals were reviewed. We measured cecal, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon diameters on serial radiographs up to the point of clinical resolution.

RESULTS

Mean +/- standard deviation cecal diameter change (between initial and post-decompression films) was -2+/-3.4 cm at four hours and -2.2+/-3.3 cm one day after decompression. On the daily radiographs between colonoscopic decompression and clinical resolution, there was a close correlation between the diameter of the cecum and that of the transverse colon (P<0.05). There was no correlation between the cecal diameter and that of the descending or sigmoid colon.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonoscopic decompression only causes a small decrease in cecal size in the patient with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. Dilation patterns of the cecum and transverse colon are significantly correlated in acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. This correlation provides additional support to the contention that the same pathophysiology affects these two segments of the colon.

Comparison of the color of fecal blood with the anatomical location of gastrointestinal bleeding lesions: potential misdiagnosis using only flexible sigmoidoscopy for bright red blood per rectum

OBJECTIVE

Flexible sigmoidoscopy has been recommended for diagnosis of patients with bright red rectal bleeding. The purpose of this study was to determine whether lesions associated with bright red hematochezia are located in the distal 60 cm of the colorectum and, therefore, in reach of a flexible sigmoidoscope.

METHODS

Three hundred-twelve consecutive patients presenting with hematochezia were shown a card containing three shades of red and asked to choose the color most representative of their fecal blood. Patients then underwent colonoscopy. The colonoscopist noted the length of the scope inserted when bleeding lesions were found.

RESULTS

Of 217 patients with bright red hematochezia, 181 bled from the distal 60 cm of the colon, 20 had more proximal lesions (including eight with cancer), and 16 had no lesion found. However, 140 patients with rectosigmoid neoplasms or nonbleeding nonneoplastic lesions (e.g., hemorrhoids, diverticula, vascular anomalies, and fissures) if found by sigmoidoscopy would have subsequently required full colonoscopic surveillance. It was calculated that the average per patient medical charges employing an initial colonoscopic approach would save $12 or $116 over one beginning with sigmoidoscopy (depending on whether sigmoidoscopy is performed in an office setting or endoscopy suite, respectively), and would reduce the probability of perforation slightly.

CONCLUSION

A diagnostic approach to hematochezia beginning with colonoscopy should be more effective, safer, and less costly than one beginning with flexible sigmoidoscopy, even when the blood is bright red.

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Pseudo-obstruction syndromes are increasingly recognized in clinical practice. They result from impairment of intrinsic neuromuscular or extrinsic control of gut motility. Typically, pseudo-obstruction syndromes result in features suggestive of mechanical obstruction and bowel dilatation in the absence of any demonstrable obstruction or mucosal disease. The syndrome may affect any region of the gut. Less severe variants without bowel dilatation are diagnosed by measurement of gastrointestinal transit and pressure profiles. The aims of treatment are restoration of nutrition and hydration, symptom relief, normalization of intestinal propulsion with prokinetics, and suppression of bacterial overgrowth. Surgery plays a limited role, adjunctive to medical treatment, facilitating enteral nutrition and decompression by means of jejunostomy. Infrequently, resection of localized disease or intestinal transplantation are indicated. The roles of intestinal pacemakers (interstitial cells of Cajal) and genetic mutations in the etiology of pseudo-obstruction, as well as the cost-benefit ratio of transplantation for pseudo-obstruction, will be clarified in the future.

Endoscopic decompression for acute colonic pseudo-obstruction

BACKGROUND

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction is often treated by colonoscopic decompression. Efficacy, safety, and outcome of endoscopic decompression was assessed.

METHODS

Colonoscopic decompressions from 1988 to 1994 were reviewed. Resolution without further endoscopic intervention was defined as clinical success.

RESULTS

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction was diagnosed in 50 patients. Thirty-three cases followed surgery or trauma and 17 developed during severe medical illness. Orthopedic joint surgery was most common. Nineteen of 50 patients (38%) had severe underlying medical disease. Forty-one patients (82%) had one colonoscopic decompression with clinical success in 39 (95%). Nine patients (18%) required multiple (2 to 4) colonoscopic decompressions with clinical success in 5 (56%). A decompression tube positioned in the right colon (57%) and in the transverse colon (33%) had similar clinical success. In 8 procedures a decompression tube was not placed, with poor clinical success (25%). The overall clinical success of colonoscopic decompression was 88% (44 of 50). An endoscopic perforation occurred in 1 patient (2%). Overall hospital mortality was 30%.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonoscopic decompression is effective and safe for acute colonic pseudo-obstruction that does not respond to conservative therapy. Most patients will respond to one colonoscopic decompression with decompression tube placement. Complete colonoscopy and cecal tube placement is unnecessary.

Decompression of the large intestine in Ogilvie's syndrome by a colonoscopically placed long intestinal tube

A technique whereby a long intestinal tube piggy-backed on the colonoscope was placed in the cecum for decompression of the large bowel in Ogilvie's syndrome is described. This technique eliminates the need for fluoroscopy as a KUB can easily confirm the placement of the tube. Although the tube can be potentially dragged back out by the colonoscope, we have not found this to be a problem. This technique appears to be safe and effective in the management of colonic pseudo-obstruction. It can be added to the physicians' armamentarium in managing this clinical entity.

Ogilvie's syndrome: colonoscopic decompression and analysis of predisposing factors

Forty-eight cases of Ogilvie's syndrome, colonic pseudo-obstruction, presenting between 1983 and 1989 were retrospectively reviewed to assess the results of colonoscopic decompression and to identify potential etiologic factors. Three patients had spontaneous resolution with medical treatment. Forty-five patients required 60 colonoscopic decompressions: 38 (84 percent) were successfully treated using colonoscopy; five (11 percent) required an operation; and two died within 48 hours of colonoscopy from medical causes. No complications or deaths were the result of colonoscopy. Twenty-nine patients (64 percent) were successfully treated with a single colonoscopy. One-third of patients required serial decompressions. Average cecal diameter in patients with successful colonoscopic decompression was 12.4 cm but was larger for patients requiring more than one colonoscopy (13.3 cm) and for those who failed colonoscopic therapy (13.4 cm). The spine or retroperitoneum had been traumatized or manipulated in 52 percent of patients. Patients with Ogilvie's syndrome were being treated with narcotics (56 percent), H-2 blockers (52 percent), phenothiazines (42 percent), calcium-channel blockers (27 percent), steroids (23 percent), tricyclic antidepressants (15 percent), and epidural analgesics (6 percent) at diagnosis. Electrolyte abnormalities included hypocalcemia (63 percent), hyponatremia (38 percent), hypokalemia (29 percent), hypomagnesemia (21 percent), and hypophosphatemia (19 percent). Colonoscopic decompression in Ogilvie's syndrome is safe and effective management. Multiple pharmacologic and metabolic factors, as well as spinal and retroperitoneal trauma, appear to alter autonomic regulation of colonic function, resulting in colonic pseudo-obstruction.

Non-obstructive colonic dilatation in the trauma patient: an analysis of six patients

Non-obstructive colonic dilatation was diagnosed in six of 13,641 patients admitted to a Level I trauma centre over a 70-month period (incidence, less than 0.05 per cent). Four were older than 60 years, and five required long-term support on a ventilator. Successful treatment depends on expeditious decompression of the dilated colon. Fibreoptic colonoscopy is the recommended method.

Colonoscopy in critically ill patients. What conditions call for it?

Indications for colonoscopy in the intensive care unit include acute lower intestinal bleeding, sigmoid volvulus, pseudo-obstruction of the colon, and suspicion of pseudomembranous colitis. Although the incidence of cardiorespiratory complications may be higher in these critically ill patients, the procedure can be done safely with proper attention to detail. Because of colonic dilatation, endoscopy can often be done without bowel preparation.