User:Mr. Ibrahem/Ogilvie syndrome

Ogilvie syndrome (OS), also known as acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO), is the sudden dilatation of the colon in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Symptoms may include bloating, abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. Onset is typically over one or more days. Complications can include bowel perforation and bowel ischemia.

It generally occurs in those with significant health problems or following surgery. While the underlying mechanism is unclear, it is believed to involve poor contraction of the colon. Generally the cecum has a diameter of more than 10 cm and right colon is also dilated. A CT scan or water-soluble enema is done to rule out a obstruction.

Management may include watchful waiting, nasogastric tube, or the medication neostigmine. Stopping opiates and anticholinergics may help. In those with more severe cases efforts to remove the gas from the colon using a colonoscope or surgery may be required. Prevention of reoccurrence may be by placing a colonic tube. About 15% of people with the condition die as a result.

Ogilvie syndrome is rare, affected about 1 per 1,000 people admitted to hospital. It most commonly affects the older people. Males and females are affected equally frequenctly. The condition is named after the British surgeon William Heneage Ogilvie, who described it in 1948.