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Rigler sign: an underappreciated alert for pneumoperitoneum
Haridimos Markogiannakis1, Klio Fili, Konstantinos Spaniolas
11st Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, Hippokrateion Hospital, Athens Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece. markogiannakis@easy.com
American Journal of Surgery
|April 26, 2008
Summary
Free intraperitoneal air, a Rigler sign, was detected on an abdominal X-ray in a patient with abdominal pain. This radiographic finding indicated a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Emergency Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Abdominal pain is a common presenting symptom in emergency departments.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in identifying the underlying cause of acute abdominal pain.
Observation:
- A supine abdominal radiograph was performed on a patient presenting with abdominal pain.
- The radiograph revealed the presence of free air within the peritoneal cavity.
Findings:
- The finding of free intraperitoneal air is known as Rigler sign.
- Rigler sign on abdominal radiography is a specific indicator of hollow viscus perforation.
Implications:
- The presence of Rigler sign necessitates urgent further investigation, such as CT scan.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical or medical intervention are critical for managing conditions causing free intraperitoneal air.
- Early detection of free air improves patient outcomes and reduces morbidity.
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