Nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia in a toddler during hypothermia after cardiac arrest: a case report

While nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) has been reported in a significant percentage of adults who were resuscitated after cardiac arrest, it is rare in children. This report presents the first known Japanese case of pediatric NOMI after return of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest. A 16-month-old boy experienced cardiac arrest due to asphyxiation from foreign bodies in the airway. After receiving 10 doses of adrenaline, with a maximum arrest time of 95 minutes, the patient achieved return of spontaneous circulation. However, 40 hours after onset, the patient developed NOMI, resulting in refractory hypotensive shock with decreased blood pressure, distended abdomen, and increased intravesical pressure. The patient was successfully rescued with two laparotomies and was discharged. Although NOMI is uncommon in children, appropriate treatment can be lifesaving.