title: Acute colonic pseudoobstruction.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Colorectal Surgery Program, Department of Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia.
authors.forename: Allen P
authors.initials: AP
authors.lastname: Chudzinski
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
authors.forename: Earl V
authors.initials: EV
authors.lastname: Thompson
authors.affiliation: Colorectal Surgery Program, Department of Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia ; Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
authors.forename: Jennifer M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Ayscue
keywords: Ogilvie syndrome; acute colonic pseudoobstruction; colonic ileus; large bowel obstruction