Flatulent Colic

Caecum

Flatulent colic

Flatulent, or gas colic, occurs when caecal gases are produced faster than they can be removed by the caecum and colon, leading to a distension of the caecum. A diagnosis is strongly confirmed by a right sided abdominal distension, and auscultation/percussion of tympanitic sounds. Treatment involves withdrawal of fluid, and intra-venous fluid therapy. The distension can be relieved by trocharisation of the caecal head, via the right sub-lumbar fossa, which is ideally performed using ultrasound guidance.