Recurrent "spontaneous" pneumoperitoneum: a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma.
The finding of intraperitoneal free gas usually indicates a perforated abdominal viscus, and requires emergency surgery. In a minority of cases, no perforation can be found, a situation that can be classified as "spontaneous" pneumoperitoneum. A conservative approach may be considered if clinical signs are minimal, particularly when peritoneal signs, fever and leucocytosis are absent. The various causes of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum are discussed.
Derveaux
K
K
Department of Abdominal Surgery, Gasthuisberg University Clinics, Catholic University Leuven, Belgium.
Penninckx
F
F
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007813:Laparotomy; D011027:Pneumoperitoneum / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D012008:Recurrence