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Intestinal obstruction and portal vein gas embolism
D Dubail1, J Bruyns, J C Hemery
1Department of Surgery, Hôpital Universitaire Saint-Pierre, U.L.B., Brussels.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|March 1, 1993
Abstract:
The presence of hepatic portal vein gas is the consequence of invasion by anaerobic bacteria originating from an intestinal tract lesion. Although this phenomenon is rare, it may result from several common intestinal pathologies. The prognosis, despite intensive treatment, is often very poor. The authors report a case associated with bowel necrosis resulting from intestinal band.
Insights
Hepatic portal vein gas, caused by intestinal bacteria, is a rare but serious condition. It often indicates poor prognosis, even with treatment, as seen in a case of bowel necrosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatic portal vein gas (HPVG) is a rare radiological finding.
- It signifies gas within the portal venous system of the liver.
- HPVG is typically associated with intestinal ischemia and bacterial translocation.
Observation:
- The case involved a patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of HPVG.
- The underlying cause was identified as bowel necrosis.
- This necrosis was attributed to an intestinal band, a mechanical obstruction.
Findings:
- The presence of hepatic portal vein gas resulted from anaerobic bacteria invading from an intestinal tract lesion.
- The intestinal lesion was specifically a bowel necrosis caused by an intestinal band.
- Despite intensive treatment, the prognosis for HPVG is often poor.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical link between intestinal pathologies and HPVG.
- Early recognition and management of intestinal lesions are crucial for improving outcomes.
- HPVG serves as a severe indicator of intra-abdominal catastrophe, necessitating prompt surgical or medical intervention.