Subcapsular Splenic Hematoma After Diagnostic Colonoscopy: A Case Report

Abstract

Colonoscopy is a widely performed diagnostic and therapeutic procedure essential for the screening, diagnosis, and management of various colorectal conditions. It is a routine and relatively safe procedure. Unfortunately, sometimes complications arise, one of the rarest being splenic injury. A splenic hematoma following colonoscopy can lead to significant morbidity and can be fatal if not promptly recognized and managed. We report a case of a 58-year-old female who initially refused imaging after presenting to the ED with abdominal pain following her procedure, but then presented again days later and was found to have a splenic hematoma and hemoperitoneum. She was ultimately managed medically and after an uneventful hospital course and was able to be discharged without requiring a splenectomy.