[So-called "gastric ileus" induced by the use of topical ice slush: report of two cases].

Of 167 patients, who underwent cardiac surgery using topical ice slush, 21 (12.6%) were found to have phrenic nerve palsy postoperatively. In addition, two patients showed severe epigastric discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting and gastric distension. These symptoms were consistent with so called "gastric ileus", first reported by Spencer et al. The injury of thoracic vagi induced by topical ice slush might be related to the development of this complication.