Self-inflicted sigmoid colon perforation. Report of a case.

A rare, if not unique, case of sigmoid colon perforation by a balloon, self-inserted transanally, is described. Mechanical properties of the sigmoid colon make it prone to rupture by pneumatic distention. Management depends on amount of peritoneal contamination, timing, and associated injury. With prompt surgery, isolated traumatic sigmoid colon perforations have a good prognosis.