epiploic appendagitis/complications?

[Txkitty]

Husband went to ER a month ago for abdominal pain, ct was done and they diagnosed him with epiploic appendagitis, so far has gotten worse in pain, and seems to be hurting not just in the one area anymore. Went to a Gastro dr today and he wants to do a colonoscopy next week.  I know that my husband needs one, but why wouldn't he look at the appendage in case of complications such as an abscess or something to do with what has already been diagnosed.  Can you please advise what we should do?  Follow up CT on our own at ER, or wait until colonoscopy is done?  Not understanding why he is not looking at the epiploic appendagitis.  Worried about massive infection and worried colonoscopy might not show anything and we are another week longer with this pain.Thank you in advance

[Robyn65]

I am on my 3rd episode of epiploic appendagitis in 3 months.And i have had 1 colonoscopy and due for another one in the next month or so. I am confused as to why im going through colonoscopies for this problem. They took out 1 polyp (which wasnt bothering me at all, didnt know i had it lol), but due to having a long colon, i have to go back so they can use a bigger scope. But all this does nothing for my pain, and im over it big time....

[CalGal]

Txkitty, epiploic appendices are small, fat-filled sacs or finger-like projections along the outer surface of the lower colon and rectum. When they become acutely inflamed - possibly as a result of twisting or other issues - they cause a lot of pain. It's a condition that's considered rare and self-limiting although it can go on for long periods of time.

If the GI person you saw hasn't seen the CT results, that should be one of the first things that's done. If the diagnosis is verified, a colonoscopy shouldn't be needed - although if his age warrants one by all means get it done.

There's no way to really 'look' at the small fat-filled sacs since they're on the surface of the colon, unfortunately.