Colonic pseudo-obstruction: value of prone lateral view of the rectum.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Collection of fluid within the rectum of patients with gas-distended bowel can simulate as obstructive lesion.

METHODS:

In 12 patients with suspected distal colonic obstruction on plain radiographs, we obtained 2 additional films comprising a right lateral decubitus view of the abdomen followed by a prone lateral view of the pelvis.

RESULTS:

Significant gaseous distension of the rectum was achieved in 75% of the 8 patients with pseudo-obstruction. Gaseous filling of the rectum did not occur in any patient with a structural obstructive lesion.

CONCLUSIONS:

In the appropriate clinical setting this approach could exclude the presence of obstruction and avoid unnecessary barium enemas in the majority of patients with colonic pseudo-obstruction.

• Authors: V H Low
• Journal: Abdominal imaging (Abdom Imaging) Vol. 20 Issue 6 Pg. 531-3 ( 1995) ISSN: 0942-8925 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8580748 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Colonic Pseudo-Obstruction (diagnostic imaging, etiology)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Emergencies
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Prone Position (physiology)
• Radiography
• Rectum (diagnostic imaging)