Colorectal emergencies and related complications: a comprehensive imaging review--noninfectious and noninflammatory emergencies of colon

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2014 Dec;203(6):1217-29. doi: 10.2214/AJR.13.12323.

Abstract

Objective: In this article, we illustrate imaging findings of colorectal emergencies encountered in the acute setting that are primarily noninfectious and noninflammatory in origin. Our review should enable the reader to identify and understand common colorectal emergencies and related complications in clinical practice.

Conclusion: The diagnosis of colorectal emergencies is mostly straightforward, but it can be challenging because of the overlap of presenting symptoms and imaging findings. Therefore, it is essential to clarify the cause, narrow the differential diagnosis, and identify associated complications.

Keywords: CT; acute colonic bleeding; large-bowel obstruction; stercoral perforation; volvulus.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Colonic Neoplasms / complications
  • Colonic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Emergency Medical Services / methods*
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Obstruction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology
  • Intestinal Perforation / complications
  • Intestinal Perforation / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intestinal Volvulus / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intestinal Volvulus / etiology
  • Intussusception / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intussusception / etiology
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Young Adult