[Ogilvie's syndrome after cesarean section: A case report]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Complications
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Ogilvie syndrome (acute colonic pseudo-obstruction) is a rare but serious postsurgical complication.
• It is characterized by symptoms mimicking mechanical bowel obstruction without a physical blockage.
• The syndrome carries a significant mortality rate, particularly if complications like caecal perforation occur.

Observation:

• This case report details a patient experiencing Ogilvie syndrome following a cesarean section.
• Early diagnosis was achieved using plain abdominal X-ray, a standard diagnostic tool.
• The patient presented with symptoms indicative of colonic pseudo-obstruction post-cesarean delivery.

Findings:

• Conservative management strategies were successfully employed in this case.
• The patient's condition resolved with non-surgical interventions.
• This highlights the efficacy of conservative treatment in select Ogilvie syndrome cases.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and conservative management are crucial for improving outcomes in Ogilvie syndrome.
• This case underscores the importance of considering Ogilvie syndrome in postpartum patients presenting with abdominal distension.
• Surgical intervention should be reserved for refractory or complicated instances of Ogilvie syndrome.