Death by Disimpaction: A Bradycardic Arrest Secondary to Rectal Manipulation

Abstract EN

Rectal examination and fecal disimpaction are common procedures performed in the Emergency Department on a daily basis.

Here, we report a rare case of a patient suffering a cardiac arrest and ultimately death likely due to rectal manipulation.

A 66-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with a complaint of abdominal distention and constipation.

A rectal exam was performed.

During the examination the patient became apneic.

On the cardiac monitor the patient was found to be in pulseless electrical activity with a bradycardic rate.

Our recommendation would be to provide adequate analgesia and close patient monitoring of those undergoing this procedure especially patients with significant stool burdens.