Acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg causing cardiac arrest after resection of the right external iliac vein for autologous graft: a case report.

BACKGROUND

The right external iliac vein (REIV) is often used for portal vein reconstruction in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy with portal-superior mesenteric vein resection. We report a case of cardiac arrest caused by acute lower leg compartment syndrome as a result of REIV resection.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 53-year-old man underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with portal vein resection. Hyperkalemia progressed during surgery due to intestinal reperfusion injury, which caused recurrent ventricular arrhythmia required for cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. The surgery was discontinued after resuscitation, and portal vein reconstruction using the REIV was performed 2 days post-operatively. Acute compartment syndrome was diagnosed immediately following the surgery. Hyperkalemia progressed, causing pulseless ventricular tachycardia. Emergent fasciotomy was performed, but right leg dysfunction persisted after discharge.

CONCLUSION

REIV resection can cause lower-extremity acute compartment syndrome. The status, including intracompartmental pressure, of the lower extremity should be carefully observed after REIV resection during and after surgery.