Alternative Names: Colon splenic flexure distention

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Common causes of distension are:

• Infection (such as tuberculosis, amebiasis )
• Inflammation (ulcerative colitis , Crohn's disease )
• Twisting of the colon (torsion, volvulus)
• Obstruction (for example, as a result of cancer)

If the colon does not contract properly, the splenic flexure can become distended.

Symptoms:

Symptoms include fever , rapid heart rate , abdominal pain and tenderness , and a mass that can be felt.

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 involves 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, surgery may be performed to remove an obstruction or to prevent perforation (hole).

Support Groups:

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:

If symptoms of abdominal pain, abdominal distention, or fever occur, call your provider.

Prevention:

There are no methods of preventing splenic flexure distention.