Abstract
IntroductionOgilvie's syndrome describes the phenomenon of an acute colonic pseudo-obstruction without a mechanical cause. It is rare but has been reported to occur after Caesarean section. It can lead to bowel perforation or ischaemia.Case presentationA healthy, 28-year-old Caucasian woman presented 2 weeks past her expected date of delivery for her first pregnancy. She underwent an uncomplicated elective Caesarean section but developed abdominal pain and bloating postoperatively and was subsequently diagnosed with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, also known as Ogilvie's syndrome.ConclusionThis case report highlights the rare, but potentially dangerous, diagnosis of Ogilvie's syndrome after Caesarean section. It is of particular interest to obstetricians, midwifery staff and general surgeons and shows the importance of accurate diagnosis, regular abdominal reassessment and early senior input to ensure appropriate and rapid treatment.
Highlights
Ogilvie’s syndrome describes the phenomenon of an acute colonic pseudoobstruction without a mechanical cause
It is of particular interest to obstetricians, midwifery staff and general surgeons and shows the importance of accurate diagnosis, regular abdominal reassessment and early senior input to ensure appropriate and rapid treatment
Case presentation A healthy, 28-year-old Caucasian woman in her first pregnancy with grade one placenta previa presented 2 weeks past her expected date of delivery for elective Caesarean section. She had had no pre-operative treatment for her condition and Caesarean section was carried out under spinal anaesthesia (2.7ml 0.5% bupivicaine with 300mcg; L3-L4 intervertebral space)
Summary
The authors believe that OS, though uncommon, is a diagnosis to consider when investigating patients who have recently undergone Caesarean section. We urge early escalation to senior obstetric and general surgical opinion if concerns persist. Consent Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and accompanying images. Authors’ contributions AS was a major contributor in writing the manuscript and interpreted the data regarding the operation and outcomes. EN gathered and analysed the data regarding the obstetric history and the non-operative management of the patient; she was a major contributor in writing the manuscript. MG performed the general surgical operation and provided the data and details of the operation. KH was the consultant surgeon in charge of the patient and provided the intellectual basis for the report; in addition, he was a major contributor to the discussion. All authors read and approved the final manuscript
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