Ischemic Colitis

Ischemic colitis is a potentially fatal digestive condition that results when the blood flow to the large intestine is interrupted. This blockage can be brought on suddenly by blood clots, stroke, or injury to the main arteries that supply the colon, or it can be caused by a chronic long-term problem related to fatty deposits on the artery walls.

Failure or Delay to Diagnose

When blood flow to the colon is diminished or blocked, damage and ulceration of the colon’s lining can result, as well as abdominal pain, fever, blood in the stool, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the blood flow interruption is not recognized quickly and treated, gangrene could set in, causing death. Medical professionals who fail to diagnose and quickly respond to ischemic colitis before it becomes life threatening may be guilty of medical negligence.

Caused by Drug Side Effect

Certain drugs can also cause ischemic colitis. In November 2000, makers of Lotronex, a drug commonly prescribed to treat irritable bowel syndrome, agreed to withdraw their product from the market after 49 cases of Lotronex related ischemic cholitis were reported to the FDA and 21 instances of severe constipation, which can result in a ruptured bowel. Ten of these 70 cases required surgery to repair. Three resulted in death.