Recurrent non-surgical pneumoperitoneum due to jejunal diverticulosis.

BACKGROUND

The presence of free intraperitoneal gas usually warrants emergent surgery. In rare instances, however, non-surgical conditions such as jejunal diverticulosis can cause pneumoperitoneum and do not require intervention.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this article is to provide the computed tomography (CT) scan findings of jejunal diverticulosis causing pneumoperitoneum. The article will also discuss other non-surgical causes of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum to increase awareness and avoid unnecessary surgery.

CASE REPORT

We describe a case of recurrent pneumoperitoneum due to jejunal diverticulosis in which the patient remained asymptomatic and free of complications with repeated evaluations in the emergency department over the course of 18 months.

CONCLUSION

Although spontaneous pneumoperitoneum due to jejunal diverticulosis is a rare finding, when it does occur, this condition must be distinguished from other forms of pneumoperitoneum to avoid unnecessary surgery. CT scan findings of multiple rounded, variably sized jejunal outpouchings filled with oral contrast are helpful in diagnosing jejunal diverticulosis and confirming the decision for conservative management of the patient.