Delayed hemoperitoneum following large-volume paracentesis in a patient with cirrhosis and ascites.

The diagnosis of early or late hemoperitoneum after large-volume paracentesis can be reached easily by a repeat tap, but gastrointestinal bleeding and other common causes of hypotension in cirrhotics must be ruled out first. When the hemoperitoneum is confirmed, imaging studies are often inconclusive and laparotomy should be considered when hemodynamic instability persists despite adequate fluid resuscitation. However, in instances of delayed hemoperitoneum, it must be anticipated that operation may not identify the bleeding site and result in further decompensation of the liver. OLT may well be the best therapeutic option in this rare, high-risk situation.