Pneumoperitoneum and signs of peritonitis from a pleuroperitoneal shunt.

Lopez-Viego, M A; Cornell, J M · Surgery · 1992

case_report · Level V

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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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