Colonic Barotrauma Causing Tension Pneumoperitoneum Following Jet Air Insufflation to the Rectum

Abstract

Rupture of colon caused by high-pressure air is a rare traumatic intra-abdominal injury. Recently, we experienced a case of colonic barotrauma followed by tension pneumoperitoneum that caused severe abdominal pain in an otherwise healthy young individual. Initially, he denied any history of trauma; later he was found to have high-pressure jet air insufflation to his rectum by the coworkers at his workplace. Radiological imaging showed high volume pneumoperitoneum. Exploratory laparotomy revealed extensive serosal lacerations. Postoperatively, the patient was discharged with uneventful recovery.