Colonic pseudo-obstruction

Last revised by Rohit Sharma on 18 Feb 2024

Colonic pseudo-obstruction, also known as Ogilvie syndrome, is a potentially fatal condition leading to an acute colonic distention without an underlying mechanical obstruction. It is defined as an acute pseudo-obstruction and dilatation of the colon in the absence of any mechanical obstruction.

Numerous causes have been identified, and the demographics of affected patients generally reflect these, with elderly unwell patients being most frequently affected 4. Usually seen in people over 60 years of age and there is a male predilection 5

Patients usually present with constipation, nausea, vomiting and abdominal distension. Colonic pseudo-obstruction can present with a sudden painless enlargement of the proximal colon accompanied by distension. Bowel sounds are normal or high-pitched, but should not be absent. 

Despite the absence of mechanical obstruction, patients can nonetheless go on to bowel necrosis and perforation (especially if dilatation is severe) which in turn can go on to become generalized peritonitis 3.

Colonic pseudo-obstruction is related to decreased parasympathetic activity.

Risk factors include ref:

  • trauma

  • burns

  • recent surgery

  • medications 

    • opioids

    • phenothiazines

    • clozapine 

  • respiratory failure

  • electrolyte disturbances

  • diabetes mellitus

  • uremia

  • neurological disease (e.g. Parkinson disease, paraneoplastic neuropathy) 8,9

Findings can be identical to a mechanical large bowel obstruction 1

A single contrast/water-soluble enema demonstrates the absence of any mechanical obstruction.

The hallmark of colonic pseudo-obstruction is the presence of dilatation of the large bowel (often marked) without evidence of an abrupt transition point or mechanically obstructing lesion. 

It is important to note, however, that a gradual transition point is frequently present, usually at or near the splenic flexure 3

Treatment involves correction of the underlying disorder and correction of any biochemical abnormalities. Medical treatment options include anticholinesterases like neostigmine and antibiotics like erythromycin.

Decompression with a rectal tube (endoscopic decompression) or careful colonoscopy may be effective 7. In severe cases, surgical or fluoroscopy-assisted cecostomy is necessary, or even occasionally a percutaneous endoscopic colostomy (PEC).

  • cecal perforation: decompression is usually undertaken if the caliber is more than 9-12 cm

It was initially described by the British general surgeon Sir William Heneage Ogilvie (1887-1971) in 1948 1,6.

General imaging differential considerations include:

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.