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Pneumatosis Intestinalis Presenting as Small Bowel Obstruction without Bowel Ischemia after Mechanical Ventilation
Dong Joon Kim1, Yong Joon Choi1, Young Sun Yoo2
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju, Korea.
Abstract:
Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare condition of the presence of gas within the bowel walls. PI is associated with numerous underlying diseases, ranging from life-threatening to innocuous conditions. PI is believed to be secondary to coexisting disorders in approximately 85% of all cases. This paper reviews the case of a patient who was diagnosed 7 years prior with pneumoperitoneum from unknown causes without any symptoms. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit for the management of aspiration pneumonia and developed extensive PI after mechanical ventilation, presenting as small bowel obstruction with mesenteric torsion. Although the exact mechanism and etiology of PI are unclear, this case provides an update on the imaging features of and the clinical conditions associated with PI, as well as the management of this condition.
Insights
Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI), gas in bowel walls, is often secondary to other conditions. This case highlights imaging and management of extensive PI following mechanical ventilation for aspiration pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare finding of gas within the bowel wall.
- It is frequently secondary to various underlying pathologies, with approximately 85% of cases linked to other disorders.
- The spectrum of associated conditions ranges from benign to life-threatening.
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