Evidence map›Paper›PMID 41221135›Full record

ArticleTranslational gastroenterology and hepatology2025

Splenic rupture as a rare colonoscopy complication: a case report with clinical and medico-legal insights.

Filippo Gibelli, Giulio Nittari, Giovanna Ricci

Abstract readCase Reports
In one paragraph

Article in Translational gastroenterology and hepatology, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.

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1 · What the graph read from it

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2 · The registry

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3 · Its place in the literature

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4 · The record

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5 · Who and what money

Authors and funding

3 authors.

Filippo GibelliSection of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy.ORCID https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0861-3218
Giulio NittariTelemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino (MC), Italy.ORCID https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7918-8442
Giovanna RicciSection of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy.ORCID https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0445-0987

Funding

No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.

6 · The paper itself

Abstract

Background: Splenic rupture is an exceedingly rare but potentially life-threatening complication of colonoscopy, with an estimated incidence of less than 1 in 100,000 procedures and a reported mortality rate of up to 5%. Due to its non-specific and often subtle clinical presentation-typically involving left upper quadrant or generalized abdominal pain-it may be misdiagnosed or diagnosed late, which can result in a significant worsening of patient outcomes. Early recognition and prompt management are therefore essential not only for improving clinical prognosis but also for preventing potential medico-legal disputes related to diagnostic delays or alleged procedural negligence. Raising awareness among clinicians of this rare complication, especially in the presence of risk factors such as difficult colonoscopy, adhesions, or splenomegaly, is of critical importance. Case Description: A 68-year-old woman underwent a routine colonoscopy for recurrent polyps. The procedure was uneventful, and she was discharged with post-procedural instructions. The following day, she developed persistent abdominal pain, initially treated with analgesics. Progression to hypotension and abdominal distension prompted emergency imaging, revealing hemoperitoneum due to splenic rupture. An emergent splenectomy was performed, confirming multiple splenic lacerations. The patient recovered fully postoperatively with supportive management. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for splenic injury in patients presenting with delayed abdominal pain after colonoscopy. Detailed informed consent, strict post-procedural monitoring, and patient education are essential for minimizing complications and addressing medico-legal challenges.

Indexed as

case reportcolonoscopy complicationsmedico-legal implicationspost-procedural monitoringSplenic rupture

Identifiers

PMID41221135
PMCPMC12598242

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