[Post-operative necrotising enterocolitis. One case cured by hyperbaric oxygenotherapy (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Complications
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition.
• Post-operative ileus can lead to bowel ischemia and anaerobic bacterial overgrowth.
• Aseptic, extra-peritoneal operations present a unique surgical context.

Observation:

• A rare case of NEC following an aseptic, extra-peritoneal operation is presented.
• The macroscopic appearance of the intestine can be deceptive during early re-operation, hindering diagnosis.
• Post-operative ileus is implicated as the primary cause, involving mucosal ischemia and anaerobic proliferation.

Findings:

• The study suggests a link between post-operative ileus and the development of necrotising enterocolitis.
• Ischemia of the mucous membrane and anaerobic bacterial overgrowth are identified as key pathological mechanisms.
• Early diagnosis can be challenging due to the misleading macroscopic appearance of the bowel.

Implications:

• Prompt recognition and management of post-operative ileus are crucial in preventing NEC.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is proposed as a potential adjunctive treatment for this complication.
• Further research into the role of hyperbaric oxygen in NEC is warranted.