Pneumoperitoneum as a complication of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

A case of pneumoperitoneum following cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is reported and 11 cases in the literature are reviewed. Four patients had laparotomies failing to demonstrate any visceral perforation or evidence of peritonitis in spite of the massive pneumoperitoneum present. Operative intervention immediately after resuscitation is associated with potentially high morbidity and mortality. Several diagnostic tools are used, including peritoneal lavage and contrast media tests, to accurately diagnose perforated viscus. To avoid an unnecessary celiotomy a clinical treatment protocol has been developed for patients with pneumoperitoneum secondary to CPR. Such diagnostic tools as peritoneal lavage and water-soluble contrast medium test are reviewed and included in this protocol. A nonsurgical approach to patient management may be reasonable if certain criteria are met.