Related Experiment Videos
Massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage from a pancreatic pseudocyst
S B Kelly1, T Gauhar, R Pollard
1Department of Surgery, North Tyneside General Hospital, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, England.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Massive bleeding from a pancreatic pseudocyst is a rare surgical emergency. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention, including controlling the bleeding gastroduodenal artery, are crucial for patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts can lead to severe complications.
- Massive hemorrhage from pseudocysts presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old woman with gallstone-induced acute pancreatitis developed sudden abdominal pain and hypotension.
- CT revealed hemorrhage into a pancreatic pseudocyst with extensive intraperitoneal bleeding.
Findings:
- Laparotomy evacuated 8 liters of blood; 14 units transfused.
- Bleeding gastroduodenal artery identified and ligated.
- Pancreatic necrosectomy and cavity packing performed; subsequent aspirations managed residual collections.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical need for prompt surgical management in cases of massive pancreatic pseudocyst hemorrhage.
- Successful outcomes are achievable with aggressive surgical intervention and supportive care.