Fatal Pneumothorax Secondary to Duodenal Perforation After Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Abstract

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a widely accepted diagnostic and therapeutic modality for extra-hepatic biliary and pancreatic pathologies. Although minimally invasive and day case procedure, it is not free from complications including bleeding, perforation, cholangitis and pancreatitis. Some of these complications, if left undiagnosed or poorly managed can become life threatening such as pneumothorax secondary to duodenal perforation. Hence, recognition and understanding of potential complications of ERCP is vital. We report a case of rapidly fatal duodenal perforation with pneumoperitoneum, pneumoretroperitoneum, bilateral pneumothoraces, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema causing hemodynamic compromise.




J Med Cases. 2014;5(4):208-211
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc1700w