Effect of morphine, prostigmine, pethidine, and probanthine on the human colon in diverticulosis studied by intraluminal pressure recording and cineradiography

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Abstract
In diverticulosis of the colon (DC), the effect of morphine in generating high intrasigmoid pressures (ISP) is exaggerated in those segments actually affected by DC. The wisdom of giving morphine to DC patients is questioned. High ISP after morphine is accompanied by distension of neighboring diverticula, sometimes to an extreme degree. Necks of the diverticula may shut under the influence of morphine, but open intermittently and allow entrance of colonic contents at high pressure. Propantheline, given intravenously, abolishes the effects of morphine on ISP. Meperidine lacks the undesirable effects on ISP, and is preferred as an analgetic in acute diverticulitis.