Pneumoperitoneum and signs of peritonitis from a pleuroperitoneal shunt. |
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Authors: | M A Lopez-Viego J M Cornell |
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Institution: | Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9031. |
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Abstract: | Pleuroperitoneal shunting has become an increasingly popular therapeutic option for the control of intractable pleural effusions. However, there exists a paucity of information regarding institutional and individual experiences with this technique. We report an unusual complication of a Denver pleuroperitoneal shunt that resulted in pneumoperitoneum and a clinical picture of diffuse peritonitis from a ruptured abdominal viscus. The cause of this condition was continuous decompression of a pneumothorax into the peritoneal cavity, through the shunt. |
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