[Perirectal, retroperitoneal, intraperitoneal and mediastinal gas after stapled haemorrhoidopexy]

We describe a case of perirectal, retroperitoneal, intraperitoneal and mediastinal gas after stapled haemorrhoidopexy. A previously healthy man aged 38 suffered after the operation from abdominal pain and scrotal emphysema. Anorectoscopy revealed a technical failure, as the staple line was found 6-7 cm orally to the dentate line. The patient was successfully treated with intravenous antibiotics and oxygen and recovered without further surgery. In case of alarm symptoms such as abdominal pain or fever after stapled haemorrhoidopexy, a plain abdominal X-ray should be done to verify or exclude retroperitoneal gas.