Colorectal Perforation from a Drainage Tube

Drainage tube migration after surgical procedures is a rare incidence and in the majority of cases without any significant complications. However, a few cases of intestinal obstruction or perforation have been reported. The most common site of a dislodged tube is the duodenum. Here we present a case of perforation of the sigmoid colon associated with drainage tube migration. A 55 years old male Caucasian patient underwent emergency surgery for duodenal rupture after ERCP. A latex drainage tube was placed into the peritoneal cavity and another one in the pouch of Douglas. In the 5th postoperative day, intestinal content was observed into the later drainage tube without any signs and symptoms of intra-abdominal inflammation. A CT Scan revealed output of the contrast dye into the drainage tube which was in touch with the sigmoid colon. The tube was mobilized and the patient received conservative treatment. After the 15th postoperative day, no discharge of fecal material was identified. The patient was discharged on the 21st postoperative day. Drainage tubes are an indispensable tool in the hands of surgeons in abdominal operations. In cases when migration occurs, endoscopic retrieval is indicated, in order to reduce the risk of secondary complications such as obstruction, infection. If complications occur, it is possible to achieve a good outcome by providing supportive care to the patient.