title: Pseudo-obstruction of the colon (Ogilvie's syndrome).
abstract: Pseudo-obstruction of the colon is an acute abdominal problem that can occur from a variety of causes and multiple organ failures. It is characterized by massive colonic dilatation and a clinical picture suggestive of mechanical large-intestinal obstruction, without any organic obstruction. Decompression should be cautiously attempted with proctoscopy and, possibly, colonoscopy; if these fail, then surgical decompression, usually be a cecostomy, is indicated.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D004108:Dilatation, Pathologic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D013577:Syndrome