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Chylous ascites following aneurysm surgery
R Sanger1, C C Wilmshurst, C A Clyne
1Vascular Department, Torbay Hospital, Devon, U.K.
European Journal of Vascular Surgery
|December 1, 1991
Summary
Chylous ascites after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is rare. Conservative management failed, requiring a peritoneo-venous shunt, but the patient ultimately succumbed to sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair is a major surgical procedure.
- Chylous ascites is a rare but serious complication following abdominal surgery.
- Post-operative management of AAA repair requires careful monitoring for complications.
Observation:
- A case of chylous ascites developed after elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
- Initial conservative management included hyperalimentation and drainage of retroperitoneal fluid.
- Conservative measures proved insufficient to manage the chylous ascites.
Findings:
- A peritoneo-venous shunt was surgically inserted to manage the refractory chylous ascites.
- The shunt initially appeared effective in managing the fluid accumulation.
- Despite shunt insertion, the patient developed and died from septicaemia.
Implications:
- This case highlights the challenges in managing chylous ascites post-AAA repair.
- Peritoneo-venous shunting may be a necessary intervention for refractory cases.
- Septicaemia remains a critical risk, emphasizing the need for vigilant post-operative care and infection control.