Overview
A rare condition where the colon becomes acutely dilated due to nerve/muscle dysfunction, mimicking obstruction.
Symptoms
• Severe distension
• Pain
• Nausea
• Failure to pass stool/gas
• Vomiting
Risk Factors
• Surgery
• Severe illness
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Medications (opioids)
• Trauma
Diagnosis
• Imaging (CT/X-ray)
Treatment
• NPO (nothing by mouth)
• NG decompression
• IV fluids
• Neostigmine (motility drug)
• Surgery if perforation risk