2
4
5
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Blood supply of the large intestine
Blood supply of the large intestine

Distention of the colon’s splenic flexure
Definition:
Enlargement of the splenic flexure which is beyond the limits of normal colonic distention.

Alternative Names:
Colon splenic flexure distention

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This is usually caused by infection (tuberculosis, amebiasis), inflammation (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease), twisting of the colon (torsion, volvulus) or cancer causing obstruction. If the colon does not contract properly (ileus) the splenic flexure can become distended.
Symptoms:

Symptoms of fever, rapid heart rate, abdominal pain and tenderness, and a palpable mass are caused when the splenic flexure becomes ballooned.
Signs and tests:

Splenic flexure distention may be identified by the following studies:

  • Abdominal X-ray
  • Barium enema
  • Abdominal CT scan
  • Abdominal MRI
Treatment:

Treatment is based upon 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 a surgery may be performed to remove a cause of obstruction or to prevent perforation.
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:

Symptoms of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, or fever occur.
Prevention:

There are no methods of preventing splenic flexure distention.
Review Date: 4/25/2002
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D. M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com