Stercoral Perforation of the Colon during Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract Stercoral perforation of the colon, though rare, is associated with high mortality. Review of the literature identified only three prior cases reported during pregnancy. We report a case on a multiparous female presenting at 31 weeks of gestation with acute abdominal pain. Computed tomograp...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Anthony B. Costales, Amit K. Agarwal, Suneet P. Chauhan, Jerrie S. Refuerzo, Ethan A. Taub
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. 2015-03-01
Series:American Journal of Perinatology Reports
Subjects:
Online Access:http://www.thieme-connect.de/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-0034-1544105
Description
Summary:Abstract Stercoral perforation of the colon, though rare, is associated with high mortality. Review of the literature identified only three prior cases reported during pregnancy. We report a case on a multiparous female presenting at 31 weeks of gestation with acute abdominal pain. Computed tomography suggested a sigmoid colon perforation. An urgent exploratory laparotomy was performed where feculent peritonitis and a stercoral perforation of the sigmoid colon was confirmed. A cesarean delivery and sigmoid colectomy with descending end colostomy was performed. While the newborn had an uncomplicated course, the mother developed an intra-abdominal abscess requiring operative management.
ISSN:2157-6998
2157-7005