Intramural Hematoma and Retroperitoneal Hematoma Following a Routine Colonoscopy: An Uncommon Complication of a Common Procedure

Abstract

Colonoscopy is used worldwide for screening colon cancer. Routine colonoscopy is considered a safe procedure with relatively fewer adverse events. We present a case of intracolonic and retroperitoneal hematoma following a routine colonoscopy. This case highlights an uncommon life-threatening complication of a common procedure. A 50-year-old female presented with abdominal pain and syncopal episode following an uneventful screening colonoscopy. CT abdomen revealed intracolonic and retroperitoneal hematoma. This eventually led to exploratory laparotomy and right hemicolectomy after failure of conservative management. Clinicians need to be aware of the potentially life-threatening complications associated with colonoscopy for overall safety of colonoscopy.

Keywords

• colonoscopy
• colorectal cancer
• intramural colonic hematoma
• retroperitoneal hematoma