Pregnancy and mesenteric venous thrombosis.

A 32-year-old pregnant black woman with multiple gastrointestinal symptoms was operated on because of peritoneal signs. Infarcted bowel caused by venous thrombosis was identified and resected. Laboratory studies, even in retrospect, were not diagnostic. The patient required extensive fluid resuscitation during the perioperative period; the perinatal period was managed by self-administered subcutaneous heparin. A normal birth via the vaginal route ensued.