Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 19, 2026

In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
11:12

In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury

Published on: June 8, 2013

Rectus sheath hematoma: a series of unfortunate events

Andreas Luhmann1, Eiffon Vaughn Williams

  • 1Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Ynys Maerdy, Llantrisant, CF72 8XR, UK. andreasluhmann@excite.com

World Journal of Surgery
|October 24, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rectus sheath hematoma is a rare condition that is difficult to diagnose, often delaying treatment. Increased interdisciplinary awareness is crucial for timely management and to prevent complications like abdominal compartment syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Abdominal Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is an uncommon cause of abdominal pain.
  • Diagnosis is often delayed due to its rarity and varied presentation.
  • The incidence of RSH is increasing.

Observation:

  • A series of four RSH cases presented within a five-month period.
  • The cases represented the full spectrum of RSH severity, including all three grades.
  • Diagnostic difficulties and potential complications were noted.

Findings:

  • RSH presents a diagnostic dilemma across various medical specialties.
  • Interdisciplinary awareness is vital for effective management of RSH.
  • Grade 3 hematomas pose a risk of abdominal compartment syndrome and mortality.

Implications:

  • Early and accurate diagnosis of RSH is essential to avoid surgical delays and complications.
  • Enhanced communication and collaboration among physicians are needed for optimal RSH patient care.
  • Recognizing RSH as a differential diagnosis for abdominal pain can improve patient outcomes.

More Related Videos

Complete and Partial Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta for Hemorrhagic Shock06:30

Complete and Partial Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta for Hemorrhagic Shock

Published on: May 19, 2022

Related Concept Videos

Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology01:29

Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology

A hemorrhagic stroke develops when a cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to escape into the surrounding brain tissue, as in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), or into the subarachnoid space, as in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Because the skull is a rigid compartment, the sudden presence of extravascular blood rapidly increases intracranial pressure and compresses adjacent neural structures, leading to immediate tissue injury and impaired cerebral perfusion.Mass Effect and Primary...
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction01:17

Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction

A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care01:26

Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction01:30

Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction

Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
Healing II: Complications01:24

Healing II: Complications

Complications during healing arise when tissue repair is altered by local or systemic factors. These changes involve abnormal collagen deposition, altered biomechanics, and reduced vascular supply, impairing restoration of normal structure and function.Loss of FunctionScar tissue differs significantly from the original tissue it replaces. In the skin, fibrosis lacks adnexal structures such as hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. Their absence reduces tactile sensitivity, impairs...
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction01:24

Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...