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Case Reports
. 2023 Mar 4;2023(3):rjad086.
doi: 10.1093/jscr/rjad086. eCollection 2023 Mar.

Caecal perforation from CT colonography: an unexpected complication

Vijay Pather  1 , Justin Rodrigues  1 , Tasmea Sefa  1 , Ewan MacDermid  1   2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Caecal perforation from CT colonography: an unexpected complication

Vijay Pather et al. J Surg Case Rep. .

Abstract

Computer tomography colonography (CTC) is an increasingly utilized diagnostic modality in Australia. CTC aims to image the entire colon, and is often used in higher risk patient populations. Colonic perforation following CTC is a rare complication, with only 0.008% of patients undergoing CTC requiring surgical intervention. Most published cases of perforation following CTC are due to identifiable causes, often involving the left colon or rectum. We present a rare case of caecal perforation following CTC, requiring right hemicolectomy. This report highlights the need for high suspicion for CTC complications, despite their rarity, and the utility of diagnostic laparoscopy for diagnosis in atypical presentations.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Coronal CT scan following gas insufflation; the red arrow points to pneumoperitoneum above the liver, and the blue arrow points to a rectal catheter.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Clinical photograph of the caecum following laparoscopy; the green arrows point to a large tear in caecum and a tear overlying the taenia coli.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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