Splenic injury during colonoscopy.

Splenic injury was associated with a flexible fiberoptic colonoscopy and required an urgent splenectomy. Injuries to viscera other than the colon during colonoscopy are rare, and the diagnosis is frequently delayed. Excessive traction on the splenocolic ligament or on preexisting adhesions, resulting in capsular tears, is the presumed mechanism of injury. Although computed tomography may be helpful, the greatest aid to an early diagnosis is the knowledge that this complication may occur.