Massive faecal impaction leading to abdominal compartment syndrome and acute lower limb ischaemia

BMJ Case Rep. 2018 Jun 20:2018:bcr2018225202. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2018-225202.

Abstract

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality requiring prompt treatment. We report a rare case of a 57-year-old man who developed acute lower limb ischaemia, severe metabolic acidosis and renal impairment from massive faecal impaction of unknown aetiology resulting in ACS causing occlusion of the right common iliac artery. This was treated with faecal disimpaction, which eventually resulted in slow but full recovery.

Keywords: acute renal failure; general surgery; medical management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Fecal Impaction / complications*
  • Humans
  • Intra-Abdominal Hypertension / etiology*
  • Ischemia / etiology*
  • Lower Extremity / blood supply*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged