Health Care Encyclopedia
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Distention of the colon's splenic flexureDefinition: Distention of the colon's splenic flexure is an enlargement of the splenic flexure beyond what is normal. The splenic flexure is a bend in the colon.
Alternative Names: Colon splenic flexure distention
Causes, incidence, and risk factors: Common causes of distension are: If the colon does not contract properly, the splenic flexure can become distended.
Signs and tests: Splenic flexure distention may be identified by the following studies:
Treatment: 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 (hole).
Expectations (prognosis): Prognosis is generally good if an underlying cause of distention can be identified and treated.
Complications: Complications are primarily perforation (hole in the colon) and infection.
Calling your health care provider: If symptoms of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, or fever occur, call your provider.
Prevention: There are no methods of preventing splenic flexure distention.
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| Review Date: 5/4/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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