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A rare case of pneumopericardium (air in the pericardium) was caused by a fistula between the small intestine and pericardium. This resulted from a jejunal ulcer and abscess formation years after a gastrojejunostomy.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Gastrojejunostomy is a surgical procedure connecting the stomach and jejunum.
- Peptic ulcers can develop in the jejunum following gastrojejunostomy.
- Abscess formation can complicate peptic ulcer disease.
Observation:
- An unusual case of pneumopericardium was identified.
- The pneumopericardium was attributed to a fistulous communication.
- The fistula connected the small bowel (jejunum) to the pericardium.
Findings:
- A peptic ulcer in the jejunum led to abscess formation.
- The abscess created a direct pathway between the intestine and the pericardial sac.
- This rare complication occurred 4 years after the initial gastrojejunostomy.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication of gastrojejunostomy.
- Early diagnosis and management of jejunal ulcers post-surgery are crucial.
- Understanding this pathway is vital for diagnosing and treating similar rare gastropericardial fistulas.
Abstract:
An unusual case of pneumopericardium is described. It is due to a fistulous communication between the small bowel and pericardium. 4 years previously a gastro-jejunostomy was performed, and now a peptic ulcer in the jejunum had developed with abscess formation, thus giving rise to a fistulous communication between intestine and pericardium. The cause, symptoms and diagnostic procedures are described.