Small bowel ischemia following laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background Among a myriad of physiological adverse affects of pneumoperiton eum-associated intra-abdominal hypertension, compromise of the mesenteric c irculation is well documented. Methods: After experiencing a case of fatal small bowel ischemia in the aftermath of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the literature was reviewed. Results: A Medline and Index Medicus search reveal ed at least 6 cases of small bowel ischemia following laparoscopic cholecys tectomy, Conclusions: Mesentric ischemia should be considered in the differ ential diagnosis of patients developing nonspecific abdominal symptoms afte r laparoscopic procedures. Copyright (C) 1999 S. Karger AG, Basel.