Chylous ascites following abdominal aortic surgery.
Chylous ascites is an extremely rare complication of abdominal aortic surgery. A case with a successful outcome is presented, followed by a review of the 17 published cases. Chylous ascites can result in nutritional imbalance, immunological deficit and respiratory dysfunction. Paracentesis confirms the diagnosis and provides symptomatic relief. Conservative management, beginning with a low-fat diet and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) supplementation, is recommended, changing to total parenteral nutrition if unsuccessful. Failure of non-operative treatment may necessitate the need for laparotomy and ligation of leaking lymphatics or peritoneovenous shunting.
Panieri
E
E
Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital.
Kussman
B D
BD
Michell
W L
WL
Tunnicliffe
J A
JA
Immelman
E J
EJ
D000368:Aged; D001012:Aorta, Abdominal / Q000601:surgery*; D017544:Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / Q000601:surgery; D002915:Chylous Ascites / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*