Small bowel ischemia following laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background Among a myriad of physiological adverse affects of pneumoperitoneum-associated intra-abdominal hypertension, compromise of the mesenteric circulation is well documented. Methods: After experiencing a case of fatal small bowel ischemia in the aftermath of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the literature was reviewed. Results: A Medline and Index Medicus search revealed at least 6 cases of small bowel ischemia following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, Conclusions: Mesentric ischemia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients developing nonspecific abdominal symptoms after laparoscopic procedures. Copyright (C) 1999 S. Karger AG, Basel.