pneumoperitoneum
Pronunciation: new-moh-pair-ih-toh-NEE-um
Presence of air or gas within the peritoneal cavity, often indicating bowel perforation or recent laparoscopic surgery.
Full Definition
The abnormal presence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, visible on imaging as free air under the diaphragm on upright chest X-ray or CT scan. In surgical critical care, pneumoperitoneum most commonly indicates gastrointestinal tract perforation requiring urgent surgical intervention. However, it can also be iatrogenic following laparoscopic procedures or result from pneumatosis intestinalis. The amount and distribution of free air, along with clinical presentation, help determine the urgency and type of surgical intervention required.
Usage
Usage note: Not hyphenated; distinguish from therapeutic pneumoperitoneum used in laparoscopy.
In Context
- "CT imaging revealed pneumoperitoneum consistent with bowel perforation." — Radiology report
- "Postoperative pneumoperitoneum is expected after laparoscopic surgery and typically resolves within days." — Surgical discharge summary