ISCHEMIC DILATATION OF COLON

Ischemic colitis may present as dilatation of the colon, often seen in acute ulcerative colitis. Clinical history and radiographic findings usually suffice to differentiate these two lesions. Prompt surgical treatment is indicated for ischemic dilatation. Two cases are presented to show that ischemic colitis may progress to transmural gangrene, without striking clinical change. Repeated barium enema and plain abdominal films are required for the management of patients with ischemic colitis, who do not promptly recover. The progression from thumb printing to ulcerative and pseudopolypoid changes on barium enema, or the development of dilatation in a segment of ischemic colon, indicates necrosis and requires immediate surgical treatment. © 1969 Hoeber Medical Division • Harper & Row, Publishers, Incorporated.