Subtotal Colectomy with Ileostomy, Surgical Management of Ischemic Colitis: A Case Study

Abstract

Ischemic colitis (IC) occurs when blood flow to part of the colon is temporarily reduced. Most patients with IC usually have some associated comorbidities that affect mucosal perfusion. A long history of diabetes mellitus, vascular disease, atrial fibrillation, hypotension, and chronic kidney disease are comorbidities that need to be carefully considered in the diagnosis and management of the patient with IC. IC commonly manifests with a clinical trio of symptoms including abdominal pain, hematochezia, and diarrhea. Most cases are mild and self-limiting with a good prognosis, responding well to medical management including antibiotics and bowel rest; however, some dire situations may require surgical intervention. This case report will discuss clinical presentations, risk factors, diagnosis, and surgical treatment (subtotal colectomy with ileostomy) in a 50-year-old female patient with IC.