Successful laparoscopic treatment of small-bowel obstruction in early pregnancy

Abstract

Small-bowel obstruction (SBO) during pregnancy is uncommon and can be difficult to diagnose. Therefore, the condition is associated with significant maternal and fetal mortality. We report a case of successful laparoscopic treatment of SBO in early pregnancy. A 37-year-old woman presented with diffuse abdominal pain and vomiting at 8 weeks of gestation. She had a history of abdominal surgery. Exploratory laparoscopy was performed by a gastrointestinal surgeon because SBO, and specifically strangulated ileus, was strongly suspected. On entry into the abdomen, dilated small bowel was visible in the pelvis; this was attached to the pelvic wall and twisted near the right adnexa. The small bowel initially appeared dark and congested, but after releasing the adhesions, it regained its normal color, was viable, and peristalsis was observed. Therefore, bowel resection was not required. No recurrence was observed after food ingestion, and the patient was discharged 12 days after surgery.

Keywords

• laparoscopy
• pregnancy
• small-bowel obstruction