title: Colonoscopic decompression for pseudo-obstruction of the colon.
abstract: The purpose of this report was to review the authors' experience with colonoscopy as a method of treating patients with acute colonic distention. For the period 1981-1987, 19 patients at two teaching hospitals met the selection criteria for this study. In terms of measurable decompression of a colon distention, colonoscopy was successful in 89 per cent of patients, although 41 per cent required repeat endoscopic decompression during their hospital stay. The procedure failed in two patients (11%) and operative decompression was necessary. The authors have found that colonoscopy is a useful procedure for determining the cause of progressive colon distention and for providing safe and effective treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Kentucky 40292.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Gosche
authors.forename: J N
authors.initials: JN
authors.lastname: Sharpe
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Larson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003112:Colonic Pseudo-Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D003113:Colonoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007418:Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography