Pneumatosis intestinalis after laparoscopic appendectomy: case report and review of the literature

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is the presence of intraluminal gas within the wall of the intestine. As a marker for bowel injury owing to mucosal injury, PI may herald a severe underlying disease process in patients without a significant medical history. In other cases, PI is a benign process, and expectant management is appropriate. Here, we present the first reported case of pneumatosis associated with postoperative abscess after appendectomy and its successful management. Then, we describe the pathophysiology of pneumatosis and review the literature regarding its origin and management. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.