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AJP Rep 2015; 05(01): e25-e29
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1544105
Case Report
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Stercoral Perforation of the Colon during Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Anthony B. Costales
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas
,
Amit K. Agarwal
2   Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas
,
Suneet P. Chauhan
3   Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas
,
Jerrie S. Refuerzo
3   Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas
,
Ethan A. Taub
2   Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

15 July 2014

28 November 2014

Publication Date:
04 March 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Stercoral perforation of the colon, though rare, is associated with high mortality. Review of the literature identified only three prior cases reported during pregnancy. We report a case on a multiparous female presenting at 31 weeks of gestation with acute abdominal pain. Computed tomography suggested a sigmoid colon perforation. An urgent exploratory laparotomy was performed where feculent peritonitis and a stercoral perforation of the sigmoid colon was confirmed. A cesarean delivery and sigmoid colectomy with descending end colostomy was performed. While the newborn had an uncomplicated course, the mother developed an intra-abdominal abscess requiring operative management.

Keywords

colonic perforation - pregnancy - stercoral perforation
 

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