Abdominal/Gastroenterology
Choledocholithiasis
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8Q62XComputed tomography (CT) was significant for two large gallstones measuring 1.1 centimeters impacted at the level of the pancreatic head with associated common bile duct (CBD) dilatation.
Volvulus
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8JH0QUpright and supine frontal radiographs of the abdomen demonstrate gas dilation of the large bowel from the level of the cecum to the sigmoid colon with air fluid levels (yellow arrows). There is a swirled configuration of the distal descending to sigmoid colon indicating the level of the volvulus (dashed yellow line) and giving rise to the classic “coffee bean” sign (dotted white tracing). Note the elevated left hemidiaphragm on the upright view reflecting abdominal distention with increased intra-abdominal pressure (red arrow).
Esophageal Perforation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8K91BHistory of present illness: A 51-year-old male with history of gastroesophageal reflux disease status post multiple endoscopies presented to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain. Paramedics reported the patient appeared diaphoretic on arrival and maintained stable vital signs during transit. The patient reported taking Prilosec that morning before eating breakfast, after which he felt like something was stuck in
Perforated Gastric Ulcer with Intra-abdominal Abscess
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J82H0CBedside ultrasound revealed a large volume of free fluid in the right upper quadrant and in the pelvis. The fluid appeared complex with multiple septations. Its appearance was not consistent with ascites or acute intra-abdominal free fluid due to striations and pockets.
Bowel Perforation complicating an incarcerated inguinal hernia
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8D30BThe AP and lateral pelvis x-rays revealed two sewing needles, 60 mm in length, within the soft tissue over the anterior right lower hemipelvis. In addition, the AP view showed emphysema involving the right hemiscrotum (arrow), concerning for perforated bowel.
A Toddler with Abdominal Pain and Emesis
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8XW2PIn the long axis video, the appendix appears as an enlarged, non-compressible, blind-ending tubular structure (white arrow) with distinct appendiceal wall layers and lack of peristalsis. In the short axis video, the appendix appears as a target sign (yellow arrow) between the abdominal and psoas muscles. The maximal outer diameter (MOD) measures 11.8mm and the appendix wall measures 0.17mm. There is trace adjacent free fluid and echogenic periappendiceal fat. Transverse axis video and image (red arrow) demonstrate that the appendix is not compressible. These findings are consistent with acute appendicitis.
Novel Emergency Medicine Curriculum Utilizing Self-Directed Learning and the Flipped Classroom Method: Gastrointestinal Emergencies Small Group Module
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8MS37We aim to teach the presentation and management of GI emergencies through the creation of a flipped classroom design. This unique, innovative curriculum utilizes resources chosen by education faculty and resident learners, study questions, real-life experiences, and small group discussions in place of traditional lectures. In doing so, a goal of the curriculum is to encourage self-directed learning, improve understanding and knowledge retention, and improve the educational experience of our residents.
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Migration
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8G019An immediate post-op abdominal x-ray performed after the patient’s VP shunt revision 30 days prior to this ED visit reveals the VP shunt tip in the mid abdomen. A CT of the abdomen performed on the day of the ED visit reveals the VP shunt tip interposed between the spleen and the diaphragm.
Computed Tomography Diagnosis of Appendicitis
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J8F30NThe CT abdomen/pelvis with IV contrast shows a dilated appendix (see red outline) with thickened, hyperenhancing wall (see blue outline) best visualized in the axial and coronal planes.
Gastric Bezoar
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21980/J85K5WIn the abdominal radiograph, a nonspecific and non-obstructive bowel gas pattern with no air-fluid level was noted, however the stomach was distended with soft tissue. The CT abdomen/pelvis revealed a distended stomach with undigested heterogeneous contents (presumed bezoar).