Gastrointestinal Polyps

Gastrointestinal polyps are mucosal projections within the gastrointestinal tract. Grossly, they may be described as either sessile or pedunculated. They commonly occur in the colon and rectum but may also occur in the oesophagus, stomach and intestines. Non-neoplastic polyps Non-neoplastic…

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most common cause of death from cancer. The incidence is increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa and in younger patients. Rectal cancer is as common as colon cancer. Screening…

Meckel’s diverticulum

Introduction Meckel’s diverticulum is a blind out-pouching of anti-mesenteric aspect of the middle-to-distal ileum. It is a true diverticulum of the gastrointestinal duct containing all layers of the bowel walls and its own artery. It is named after Johann Friedrick…

Fournier’s Gangrene

Fournier’s Gangrene Fournier’s Gangrene is necrotising fasciitis of the perineum and external genitalia that can spread rapidly to the anterior abdominal wall (Meleney gangrene) and gluteal muscles. Urogenital causes of Fournier’s gangrene begin with necrosis of the anterior triangle, while…

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus Cancer of the squamous cell of the anus. THIS IS NOT SYNONYMOUS WITH RECTAL CANCER. Linked with HPV and anal intercourse. More favourable prognosis than colorectal cancer

Anorectal Conditions

Overview Above the dentate line Below the dentate line Origin Hindgut (Endoderm) Cloaca (Ectoderm) Epithelium Simple columnar Non-keratinizing stratified squamous Arterial supply Superior rectal artery br. IMA Inferior rectal artery br. of internal pudendal Venous drainage Internal hemorrhoidal plexus →…

Stoma

Stoma A stoma is an opening from a hollow viscus connecting it to the skin surface. “Stoma” = opening. “Ostomy” = surgical creation of an artificial opening. Ostomy is performed when it is unwise to restore/maintain the continuity of intestines.…