Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie's syndrome) with caecal perforation after caesarean section

Ogilvie syndrome or acute colonic pseudo-obstruction is characterized by acute dilatation of the colon usually involving caecum and right hemi-colon in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. It is usually associated with an underlying severe illness/infection or surgery, mostly caesarean section and rarely occurs spontaneously. Identification of this condition is important due to the increased risk of bowel ischaemia and perforation particularly with caecal diameter >9 cm. This is a case report of bowel perforation following caesarean section leading to urgent laparotomy.