[Volvulus of the small intestine, a rare complication during laxative period before colonoscopy].

History And Clinical Findings: A 69-year-old patient was hospitalized 16 h after investigation of the colon (screening colonoscopy), suffering from abdominal pain, which had started during the laxative period the day before colonoscopy.

Investigations: Clinical and technical investigations showed signs of a peritonitis.

Treatment And Course: By laparotomy a volvulus of the small intestine was found, caused by adhesions after appendectomy years before. A resection of a part of the small intestine got necessary, there were no problems during the postoperative course.

Conclusions: If pain appears during the laxative period before colonoscopy, rare complications like volvulus of the small intestine should be considered.