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Intestinal ischemia after bushmaster (Lachesis muta) snakebite--a case report
R Rosenthal1, J Meier, A Koelz
1Division of Surgery, Dornach Hospital, 4143 Dornach, Switzerland. rosenthal_r@hotmail.com
Summary
A bushmaster snakebite caused severe cardiovascular shock and coagulopathy. This led to a rare intestinal ischemic complication, including bowel obstruction and necrosis, requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The Costa Rican bushmaster (Lachesis stenophrys) is a venomous snake known for causing local and systemic effects.
- Cardiovascular shock and coagulopathy are recognized complications of Lachesis stenophrys envenomation.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old patient presented with cardiovascular shock and coagulopathy post-bushmaster snakebite.
- Following initial treatment and discharge, the patient was readmitted with abdominal pain and signs of bowel obstruction.
Findings:
- Emergency laparotomy revealed a necrotic ileum and caecum.
- Superior mesenteric artery obstruction was identified as the cause of intestinal ischemia.
Implications:
- This case highlights a previously unreported intestinal ischemic complication following bushmaster snakebite.
- Understanding the vascular effects of Lachesis stenophrys venom is crucial for managing severe envenomations.