Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
Alternative names Return to top
Colon splenic flexure distentionDefinition Return to top
Distention of the colon's splenic flexure is an enlargement of the splenic flexure beyond what is normal.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Distention is usually caused by infection (tuberculosis, amebiasis), inflammation (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease), twisting of the colon (torsion, volvulus) or obstruction (cancer). If the colon does not contract properly, the splenic flexure can become distended.
Symptoms Return to top
Symptoms of fever, rapid heart rate, abdominal pain and tenderness, and a palpable mass are caused when the splenic flexure becomes ballooned.
Signs and tests Return to top
Splenic flexure distention may be identified by the following studies:
Treatment Return to top
Treatment involves decompressing the colon and treating the underlying cause of distention. This may be done with a rectal tube for decompression, or a colonoscopy to remove excess air in the colon. Occasionally, surgery may be performed to remove an obstruction or to prevent perforation.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Prognosis is generally good if an underlying cause of distention can be identified and treated.
Complications Return to top
Complications are primarily perforation (hole in the colon) and infection.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
If symptoms of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, or fever occur, call your provider.
Prevention Return to top
There are no methods of preventing splenic flexure distention.
Update Date: 5/3/2004 Updated by: Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |