Occult bladder injury after laparoscopic appendicectomy
Meher Lad1, Sarah Duncan, Darren K Patten
1Department of General Surgery, North Middlesex Hospital, London, UK.
Abstract:
Minimally invasive procedures have revolutionised surgery by reducing pain and the length of hospital stay for patients. These are not simple procedures and training in laparoscopic surgery is an arduous process. Meticulous preparation prior to surgery is paramount to prevent complications. We report a rare complication involving a 35-year-old patient who underwent a laparoscopic appendicectomy for a perforated appendix. Two days after surgery the patient experienced redness and swelling in the lower abdominal region and oliguria. A delayed computer tomography (CT) scan revealed contrast leakage around the bladder spreading within the peritoneal cavity consistent with an intraperitoneal bladder perforation. She underwent urinary catheterisation for 6 days. A follow-up CT cystogram showed no evidence of leakage into the peritoneal cavity. This case highlights the need for thorough preparation prior to laparoscopic surgery and careful manipulation of instruments during routine procedures to minimise the risk of serious patient complications such as the aforementioned.
Insights
A rare complication of laparoscopic appendicectomy, intraperitoneal bladder perforation, occurred in a patient. This highlights the need for meticulous surgical preparation and careful instrument handling to prevent serious patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Minimally invasive surgery
- Surgical complications
- Laparoscopic surgery
Background:
- Minimally invasive procedures offer benefits like reduced pain and shorter hospital stays.
- Laparoscopic surgery requires extensive training and meticulous preparation.
- Preventing complications is crucial in all surgical procedures.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old patient developed redness, swelling, and oliguria two days post-laparoscopic appendicectomy for a perforated appendix.
- Delayed CT scan revealed contrast leakage around the bladder into the peritoneal cavity.
- This indicated an intraperitoneal bladder perforation, a rare surgical complication.
Findings:
- The patient underwent urinary catheterization for six days.
- A follow-up CT cystogram confirmed the absence of leakage into the peritoneal cavity.
- This case demonstrates a rare but serious complication following laparoscopic appendicectomy.
Implications:
- Thorough pre-operative preparation is essential in laparoscopic surgery.
- Careful instrument manipulation during routine procedures can minimize risks.
- Awareness of rare complications like intraperitoneal bladder perforation is vital for surgical teams.
Related Concept Videos
Appendicitis
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

