Pseudo-obstruction of the colon. A postoperative complication in orthopaedic patients.

Pseudo-obstruction of the colon is a problem of bowel motility that predominantly involves the large intestine and that can mimic the clinical and radiographic features of mechanical obstruction of the colon. It must not be confused with the much more common and less dangerous complication of post-operative ileus. Although it is most often seen in elderly patients who are confined to bed, it can occur in younger patients. Cecal dilation can develop rapidly to dangerous proportions, and recognition by thorough physical examination and early abdominal radiographs is essential if operative intervention is to be avoided. Nasogastric suction, intravenous fluids, and frequent turning of the patient are often successful if begun early, but are unlikely to be of benefit once cecal dilation approaches fourteen centimeters on plain radiographs. In these advanced cases, tube cecostomy or colostomy may be the only way to avoid necrosis of the bowel wall, perforation, and sepsis.