Endometriosis Involving Colon and Rectum: A Literature Review and Laparoscopic Management

Volume 3 - Issue 1

Abdallah Elsabagh^* and Yik Hong Ho²

Received:July 16, 2019   Published: July 22, 2019

DOI: 10.32474/SCSOAJ.2019.02.000155

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Abstract

Introduction: Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of functional endometrial tissue consisting of glands and/ or stroma located outside the uterus [1], although implanted ectopically, this tissue presents histopathological and physiological responses that are similar to the responses of the endometrium [2].

Clinical Features: Endometriosis usually becomes apparent in the reproductive years when the lesions are stimulated by ovarian hormones. Forty percent of the patient’s present symptoms in a cyclic manner, which are usually related with menses Pelvic pain, infertility and dyspareunia are the characteristic symptoms of the disease, but the clinical presentation is often non-specific [1].

Diagnosis and Investigations: A precise diagnosis about the presence, location and extent of rectosigmoid endometriosis is required during the preoperative workup because this information is necessary in the discussion with both the colorectal surgeon and the patient. Furthermore, almost all patients with intestinal endometriosis have lesions in multiple pelvic locations and it is difficult to know what symptoms are caused by the intestinal disease versus the pelvic disease.

Treatment: Treatment must be individualized, taking the clinical problem in its entirety into account, including the impact of the disease and the effect of its treatment on quality of life. Pain symptoms may persist despite seemingly adequate medical and/ or surgical treatment of the disease. In such circumstances, a multi-disciplinary approach involving a pain clinic and counselling should be considered early in the treatment plan.

Abstract| Introduction| Prevalence and Epidemiology| Pathogenesis| Pathology and Sites of Involvement| Link to Cancer| Clinical Features| Diagnosis and Investigations| Treatment| The Treatment of Uncomplicated Intestinal Endometriosis| Operative Technique| Postoperative Complications| Outcome after Surgery| References|