Sudden hypotensive syncope and significant iatrogenic maxillofacial trauma following administration of oral sodium phosphate purgative solution.
Oral sodium phosphate (NaP) solution is used globally as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy, surgery and medical-imaging (Balaban 2008). We present a case of a patient who suffered sudden hypotensive syncope and iatrogenic mandibular fractures within an hour of ingesting a NaP solution. We discuss the uses of these medicines and highlight the need to warn patients of possible adverse side effects to avoid patient harm and subsequent litigation.
Frenchay Hospital, Frenchay Park Road, Bristol, BS16 1LE. j.v.williams@doctors.org.uk
John V
JV
Williams
Serryth D
SD
Colbert
Peter J
PJ
Revington
D000058:Accidental Falls; D000368:Aged; D002400:Cathartics / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003113:Colonoscopy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000293:injuries*; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000209:etiology*; D010710:Phosphates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019462:Syncope, Vasovagal / Q000139:chemically induced*
D002400:Cathartics; D010710:Phosphates; C018279:sodium phosphate