Splenic trauma secondary to colonoscopy: a rare complication

Abstract

Introduction: Colonoscopy is a frequent and routine procedure, and even though it is considered safe, it can have complications. The splenic traumatism is an infrequent complication, but potentially mortal.

Clinical Case: Woman 75 years old, consulted for abdominal pain and distension after a colonoscopy. Physical examination revealed pain in epigastric and left hypochondrium without peritoneal irritation. Urgent TC scan reported a splenic hematoma of 10 x 2,6 cm, without active bleeding. She received nonoperative treatment with a favorable evolution.

Conclusion: The management depends on the hemodynamic stability, the grade of injury and the presence of and active bleeding. In selected cases, non-operative treatment is an option that avoids unnecessary surgeries, even if the patient must stay 48-72 h hospitalized in an Intensive Care Unit for a strict monitoring of vital signs. Although the splenic injury secondary a colonoscopy is an infrequent complication, it can be potentially mortal if it is not diagnosed.