Postcolonoscopy splenic rupture: the under-reporting of an unpropitious phenomena?

Abstract

Splenic rupture secondary to colonoscopy is a rare but potentially fatal complication. Given the disparity between the small number of case reports with the incidence reported by some investigators, we contend that the former is not representative of the true extent of this sequela. We present a case report of postcolonoscopy splenic rupture, where the patient had a bizarre initial presentation of chest pain and collapse; and only developed haemodynamic instability and abdominal pain on day 2 postprocedure. Diagnosis was made with a CT scan, and resolution of symptoms was achieved with a splenectomy.

Keywords: endoscopy; gastroenterology; general surgery.