Cecal necrosis after open-heart operation.
Two patients with isolated transmural ischemic necrosis of the cecum after cardiopulmonary bypass are discussed. Superimposed upon the multiple cardiovascular abnormalities in these patients, cardiopulmonary bypass adds another risk factor for nonocclusive intestinal infarction. In patients undergoing open-heart procedures, postoperative nonspecific abdominal complaints should be evaluated with a high degree of suspicion for this lethal complication. An intensive diagnostic effort is indicated, including contrast and angiographic radiological studies. Consideration of early abdominal exploration is indicated.
D000368:Aged; D002315:Cardiopulmonary Bypass; D002432:Cecum / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009336:Necrosis; D011183:Postoperative Complications