RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Abdominal cocoon syndrome (ACS), or sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in which the bowel and internal abdominal organs are wrapped with a fibrocollagenous cocoon-like encapsulating membrane. While cocooning of the abdomen primarily manifests in individuals undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD), it has also been reported to occur spontaneously. Remarkably rare, SEP may present with complete mechanical bowel obstruction in select cases. CASE PRESENTATION: We hereby report a case of an 87-year-old female patient with a prior history of abdominal surgery, who presented to our emergency department with a clinical picture of complete small bowel obstruction. Clinical and radiological data were suggestive of a strangulated midline hernia, prompting a therapeutic laparotomy. The surgical exploration revealed the encasement of the small bowel loops within a thick fibrocollagenous membrane. Efficient resolution was achieved through skillful adhesiolysis and the meticulous excision of the fibrocollagenous membrane. DISCUSSION: SEP is more prevalent in men, with a higher incidence observed in tropical and subtropical countries. While the precise pathophysiology remains elusive, it is hypothesized that subclinical intraabdominal inflammation gives rise to the formation of a dense fibrocollagenous membrane. This membrane encapsulates intraperitoneal organs, ultimately leading to intestinal obstruction. Patients typically present with a recurrent history of small bowel obstruction, notably in the absence of prior abdominal surgery. Abdominal CT scan with experienced radiologist interpretation can aid in preoperative diagnosis. In cases where non-operative management fails and recurrent obstructions persist, surgical adhesiolysis stands as the well-established gold standard. CONCLUSION: SEP is a rare abdominal disease, posing challenges for preoperative diagnosis. Laparotomy plays an important role in its diagnosis and treatment. The primary objective of the surgical intervention is to release the encapsulation of the bowel and safeguard the optimal functioning of the small intestines as much as possible.
RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Retained foreign bodies have become very rare in countries where the safety rules in the operating theater are very rigorous and follow precise guidelines. Maintaining awareness of this issue among surgeons and radiologists is of paramount importance to minimize avoidable morbidity and facilitate the selection of the most suitable therapeutic strategy. This consideration is particularly relevant in the differential diagnosis of hydatid cysts. This study describes a case of intra-abdominal gossypiboma, which mimicked hydatid cyst on preoperative assessment. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 63-year-old female who was referred to our department for the management of a hepatic hydatid cyst. She has history of open cholecystectomy and oophorocystectomy. During the intervention, we discovered a 10 cm mass located in the interhepatogastric region. Complete resection of the mass was performed, and pathology results were compatible with a piece of gauze surrounded by reactive changes (gossypiboma). DISCUSSION: Gossypiboma is undeniably a source of concern for surgeons. It's a genuine and serious surgical complication which can potentially arise from any type of surgery and may manifest with diverse complaints. However, it is crucial to emphasize that this complication is preventable with the primary preventive measure being meticulous counting of surgical materials during the procedure. CONCLUSION: The potential embarrassment experienced by the surgeon and the significant legal consequences associated with this iatrogenic complication are substantial. Hence, it becomes imperative to adopt all requisite preventive measures to avert such incidents, as there is no excuse that can justify their occurrence.
