An intracolonic explosion or colonic gas explosion is an explosion inside the
colon of a person due to ignition of explosive gases such as
methane
Methane ( , ) is a chemical compound with the chemical formula (one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms). It is a group-14 hydride, the simplest alkane, and the main constituent of natural gas. The abundance of methane on Earth makes ...
. This can happen during colonic exploration, as a result of the electrical nature of a
colonoscope
Colonoscopy () or coloscopy () is a medical procedure involving the endoscopic examination of the large bowel (colon) and the distal portion of the small bowel. This examination is performed using either a CCD camera or a fiber optic camera, ...
.
A colonic gas explosion is rare;
however, the result can be acute colonic
perforation
A perforation is a small hole in a thin material or web. There is usually more than one perforation in an organized fashion, where all of the holes collectively are called a ''perforation''. The process of creating perforations is called perfor ...
, which can be fatal.
Cause
An explosion is triggered by a combination of combustible gases such as hydrogen or methane, combustive gas such as oxygen, and heat. An explosion can also be caused by Crohn's disease.
Prevention
Careful bowel preparation, such as cleansing the colon before a procedure, is key to preventing an intracolonic explosion.
See also
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Fart lighting
Fart lighting, also known as pyroflatulence or flatus ignition, is the practice of igniting the gases produced by flatulence. The resulting flame is often of a blue hue hence the act being known colloquially as a "blue angel", "blue dart" or in Au ...
, the intentional ignition of
flatulence
Flatulence is the expulsion of gas from the Gastrointestinal tract, intestines via the anus, commonly referred to as farting. "Flatus" is the medical word for gas generated in the stomach or bowels. A proportion of intestinal gas may be swal ...
using an ignition source such as a
lighter
A lighter is a portable device which uses mechanical or electrical means to create a controlled flame, and can be used to ignite a variety of flammable items, such as cigarettes, butane gas, fireworks, candles, or campfires. A lighter typic ...
References
Further reading
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Gastrointestinal tract disorders
Medical emergencies
Explosions
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