Colonoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, with a low rate of
complications. Although rare, the migration of the colonoscope may
represents a life-threating events, requiring emergency treatment. We
herein describe the case of an elective colonoscopy complicated by an
irretrievable colonoscope that migrated, through a previous traumatic
diaphragmatic hernia, in the chest cavity. This hernia was likely a
chronic complication of a previous abdominal trauma. Several attempts to
retrieve the scope were unsuccessful. After further investigations and
collegial discussion, a left thoracotomy was performed, with the aim to
retrieve the colonoscope and to reduce the hernia.