Rapid colonoscopic detection and quantification of colonic ischemia by using a laser Doppler flowmeter.

摘要

Compromised blood flow to the intestine or the colon can lead to tissue ischemia, hypoxia, and necrosis. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent the development of necrosis and its sequela, the development of peritonitis, and sepsis. Tissue hypoxia and necrosis may not be readily apparent, especially in the early stages of development. Laser Doppler flowmetry can reliably and quantifiably assess colonic-tissue blood flow by measuring the number of erythrocytes flowing through the mucosal microcirculation in a defined spatial compartment. We report the first use, to our knowledge, of a through-the-scope laser Doppler probe to diagnose colonic ischemia in a patient with sigmoid volvulus.