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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2018; 31(01): 041-046
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1602179
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Colonoscopic Perforations

Vinay Rai
1   Department of Surgery, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
,
Nitin Mishra
2   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
19 December 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colon cancer screening. It has led to a decrease in the incidence of colorectal cancer mortality. Colon perforation is a feared complication of this procedure with high morbidity and substantial mortality. Due to the high volume of colonoscopies performed, the absolute number of colonoscopic perforations is relatively high. It leads to a substantial cost to the patient and the health system. Understanding the mechanisms and the risk factors may help in preventing perforation. Traditionally, a laparotomy with creation of a stoma was used to address this complication. However, minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy and endoluminal repairs are being used more commonly now. More surgeons are favoring primary anastomosis (with or without a diverting loop ileostomy) than a Hartmann procedure.

Keywords

colonoscopy - perforation - complication - screening