Iatrogenic Gastrointestinal Injuries During Obstetrical and Gynecological Operation

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal Injuries (GI) during gynecological operation are uncommon but proper management of these injuries is very important. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to review the causes and management of gastrointestinal injuries during gynecological and obstetrical operations. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this descriptive retrospective study, 25 patients with gastrointestinal injuries during gynecological and obstetrical operation at Shabihkhani Maternity Hospital in Kashan city were reviewed. Demographic data such as age, gravid, parity, type of surgery or procedure, history of laparotomy, the surgical operation, injury site, time of diagnosis and method of treatment were extracted from medical records. RESULTS: The mean age of women was 33.2 ± 7.57 years. Fourty-four percent of the patients had a history of abdominal scar. Thirty-two percent of all GI injuries occurred during total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). The small bowel was injured in 36% of cases. Fifty-two percent of injuries were diagnosed during the operation and the mean time of injury diagnosis was 2.8 ± 0.9 days. CONCLUSIONS: All of the gynecologic surgeons must be aware of gastrointestinal injuries and should anticipate injury to these organs especially in high-risk patients for decreasing patient morbidity.