Omental infarction following colonoscopy

Abstract

Diagnosis of omental infarction, while rare, has become increasingly common likely due to improvements in diagnostic imaging. Reported incidence of omental infarction varies; however, omental infarction has not yet been described in association with colonoscopy. Common complications of colonoscopy include complications of sedation, complications of bowel preparation, and bleeding following polypectomy, and rarely, perforation or infection. We describe herein a case of a 63-year-old female who developed acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain following a colonoscopy. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed omental infarction in the right lower quadrant. Conservative management was employed, and the patient was observed for resolution of symptoms. Repeat abdominal CT scan 2 weeks following initial presentation showed resolution of inflammatory changes associated with omental infarction. The patient also improved clinically. Omental infarction should be considered in patients presenting with acute abdominal pain following colonoscopy.