Work

Delayed post-polypectomy perforation: A case report of a 65-year-old man at 54 days post-procedure

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: RATIONALE: Post-polypectomy perforation (PPP) is an uncommon complication, usually occurring within 24 hours of colonoscopic polypectomy. Delayed perforation beyond several days is extremely rare. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 65-year-old man underwent colonoscopic removal of a 6-mm sessile tubular adenoma in the descending colon using a hot snare. DIAGNOSES: Six hours later, he developed abdominal pain with computed tomography findings consistent with post-polypectomy electrocoagulation syndrome and improved after conservative management. Fifty-four days later, he re-presented with severe abdominal pain; computed tomography revealed free intraperitoneal air and colonic necrosis. INTERVENTIONS: Emergency subtotal colectomy confirmed PPP. OUTCOMES: The patient recovered well and remained asymptomatic at 6-month follow-up. LESSONS: This case highlights that PPP can occur several weeks after polypectomy and may initially mimic post-polypectomy electrocoagulation syndrome. Clinicians should remain alert to late complications in patients with recurrent or persistent abdominal symptoms after polypectomy.

Source: Medicine

DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000045311

Authors: Donghyoun Lee, Beom Jun Lee, Jung Woo Yi, Robert Kim, Yuchul Jeong

Institutions: Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju National University, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University

Language: English

Topic: Colorectal Cancer Screening and Detection

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,950