Hepatic portal vein gas detected by point of care ultrasound.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Portal venous gas is a rare finding in adults and is typically associated with underlying intestinal ischemia. Portal venous gas can be detected by a bedside point of care ultrasound (POCUS) examination in adult patients in critical care units (CCU). Findings include echogenic bubbles flowing centrifugally throughout the portal venous system.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 73-year-old female with advanced ischemic cardiomyopathy and cardiorenal syndrome who was managed in the CCU. She developed vague abdominal pain and respiratory depression requiring intubation and dialysis during her course of treatment in the CCU. Her findings were consistent with portal venous gas upon POCUS, prompting computed tomography of her abdomen and surgical consultation.

SUBMITTER: Bitar ZI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8164028 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature