2007 Volume 60 Issue 1 Pages 33-37
We discuss a case of surgically treated chronic idiopathic pseuodoobstruction (CICP).
A 60-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with complaints of constipation and abdominal fullness. On admission, physical examination disclosed severe abdominal distention, no abdominal tenderness and loss of bowel. Conservative therapy was started, but he developed hypotension, respiratory failure, and hyperventilation. Emergency operation including subtotal colectomy and ileostomy was performed, because the total colon was significantly distended. The post-operative course was good.
CICP is characterized by massive dilatation of the colon without any organic obstruction. In Japan, few reports have been reviewed. The etiology of this disease is unknown and is an isolated condition rather than a part of chronic intestinal tract. Either total or subtotal colectomy is required when conservative management, such as colonic decompression or medical management, fails.
