Shock and dyspnea after cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a case of iatrogenic gastric rupture

Chir Ital. 2000 Sep-Oct;52(5):593-6.

Abstract

Rupture of the stomach is a rarely reported complication of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The number of cases reported in the literature since 1970 does not exceed 30. We present a recent case of a young woman submitted to cardiopulmonary resuscitation in whom a gastric rupture gave rise to massive pneumoperitoneum with haemodynamic shock and respiratory failure. Major distension of the abdomen and an extensive subcutaneous emphysema were present. After re-establishing the haemodynamic conditions and a diagnostic spiral thoracic-abdomen CT scan, an emergency laparoptomy was performed. We found two linear defects of the lesser curvature of the stomach, which were treated by closure with a primary interrupted two-layer suture. The postoperative recovery was uneventful. Iatrogenic gastric rupture carries a high risk of mortality. A prompt diagnosis and emergency surgical repair are essential for patient survival.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / adverse effects*
  • Dyspnea / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Shock / etiology*
  • Stomach Rupture / etiology*