EP552 - Colonoscope Incarceration in an Inguinal Hernia: A Case Report

Abstract Aim We report a rare case of incarceration of a colonoscope within left inguinal hernia, highlighting the unusual circumstances and challenges faced by colonoscopists. Case presentation An 83-year-old male patient with a known left inguinal hernia underwent an urgent colonoscopy for positive quantitative faecal immunochemical test, anaemia, weight loss and fatigue. The patient had declined any form of analgesia/sedation for colonoscopy. Scope guide was used during the procedure. Initially, a proximal sigmoid loop was negotiated successfully. The colonoscope reached the mid transverse colon but the procedure became uncomfortable for the patient. There was an obvious loop on the scope guide which could not be reduced despite various manoeuvres. An attempt to apply external pressure to allow progression revealed a large left inguinal hernia containing a loop of the colonoscope. Thus, it was decided to discontinue the procedure, however, unexpectedly, during withdrawal, the colonoscope became lodged. Attempts to manually reduce this were very uncomfortable for the patient, therefore, intravenous access was gained to administer sedation & analgesia. Another colleague was summoned to assist with manual reduction while simultaneously withdrawing the colonoscope allowing for reduction of the hernia and removal of the colonoscope. The patient was kept overnight for observations and was discharged home the following day. Subsequently CT colonography confirmed large left inguinal hernia containing sigmoid colon. Conclusion This case delves into the intricate details of the incident, exploring the contributing factors, such as the patient's medical history and the nature of the hernia. We discuss ways to avoid this complication in the future as well as suggest a technique for resolution of the complication.