Spontaneous falciform ligament necrosis: A rare case report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Radiology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Spontaneous and isolated necrosis of the falciform ligament is an exceedingly rare clinical entity.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for favorable patient outcomes.

Observation:

• A 55-year-old female presented with acute epigastric pain, fever, and vomiting.
• Initial laboratory findings showed mild elevations in serum amylase and lipase.
• Imaging with ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed falciform ligament necrosis with an adjacent collection.

Findings:

• Conservative management failed to resolve symptoms, necessitating repeat CECT.
• The repeat CECT demonstrated an organized abscess anterior to the lesser omentum.
• Ultrasound-guided aspiration of the abscess was performed as a minimally invasive intervention.

Implications:

• This case underscores the critical role of advanced imaging in diagnosing falciform ligament necrosis.
• Ultrasound-guided aspiration offers a viable minimally invasive treatment option for associated abscesses.
• Early recognition and intervention can lead to successful patient recovery.