Cecal bascule after cardiac surgery: A case report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Complications
• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Background:

• Cecal bascule is a rare cause of large bowel obstruction, accounting for 0.01% of adult cases.
• It involves upward and anterior cecal folding, potentially leading to closed-loop obstruction, ischemia, and gangrene.
• Untreated cecal bascule carries a 50% mortality rate, with nonoperative management having a 95% failure rate.

Observation:

• Severe gastrointestinal complications can arise post-cardiothoracic surgery.
• This is the first reported instance of cecal bascule occurring after cardiac surgery.
• The case highlights a unique and severe complication following cardiothoracic procedures.

Findings:

• Cecal bascule, a form of volvulus, presents a significant risk of mortality and morbidity.
• Right hemicolectomy is the definitive treatment with a low recurrence rate.
• The occurrence post-cardiac surgery underscores the need for vigilance regarding GI complications.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of gastrointestinal complications following cardiothoracic surgery.
• It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and promptly treating cecal bascule, especially in post-surgical patients.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms linking cardiac surgery to cecal bascule may be warranted.