Colonic duplication in an adult with chronic constipation: a case report and review of its surgical management

One of the possible causes of chronic constipation is colonic duplication. Although seldom asymptomatic, its diagnosis is important due to the risk of malignancy that it carries. We present a case of a young female patient with long-standing constipation who was referred to Kolorektal Cerrahi Clinic (Izmir, Turkey) after scans revealed tubular type of colonic duplication. We successfully performed a laparoscopic total colectomy, and she recovered well. Identifying the type of duplication is important to ensure adequate resection and treatment. A proper workup, including carcinoembryonic antigen levels, must be done as well. Multiple surgical techniques and procedures have been introduced for this condition, but resection of the duplicated colon with its native lumen should be the management of choice, especially in tubular type of duplications such as in our case. In centers where laparoscopic services are available, laparoscopy could be a better option, as it provides multiple benefits of minimally invasive surgery. Attention should also be paid to anatomical details during surgery to ensure better results and outcomes.