Unexplained pneumoperitoneum in association with basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation efforts.

Abstract

During the mouth to mouth ventilation of basic life support, the high inflation pressures generated may result in later complications. Pulmonary barotrauma may result in pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum, and high pressures applied to the gastrointestinal tract may lead to gastric rupture and pneumoperitoneum. A case is reported of pneumoperitoneum in the absence of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum or gastrointestinal perforation and the literature relating to this unusual condition is reviewed.