A Laotian man with intestinal obstruction underwent emergency surgery by Vietnamese doctors using a special technique.

Approximately one month prior to hospitalization, the patient experienced persistent, dull abdominal pain that had not been properly treated. Two days before arriving at the 19/08 Hospital, the pain intensified significantly, turning into sharp, cramping pains, accompanied by severe abdominal distension and continuous vomiting.

As a foreigner, the patient faced difficulties communicating with medical staff. Gathering medical history and symptom information therefore took more time. However, through examination and emergency imaging, doctors in the General Surgery department determined a tumor in the left colon causing complete bowel obstruction, with suspected metastatic lesions.

This is a medical emergency because when the bowel is blocked, gas, fluid, and stool continue to accumulate above the obstruction, causing rapid distension of the colon. If prolonged, the bowel wall may become ischemic, necrotic, or perforated, leading to peritonitis and severe infection.

The tumor in the left colon has caused bowel obstruction, with lesions suspected of metastasis.

The difficulties of the surgery were not limited to the colon tumor. The patient was obese and also suffered from hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. These factors necessitated careful planning of anesthesia, resuscitation, and post-operative monitoring.

In the abdominal cavity, the colon above the tumor was greatly dilated, containing a large amount of fluid and stool. If the segment of the bowel containing the tumor were resected and the two ends of the bowel were anastomosed in a single surgery, the risk of anastomotic leakage could increase.

According to Dr. Mai Tien Dung, a specialist in General Surgery, after consultation, the team unanimously agreed to perform the Hartmann procedure. This is a specialized technique where the doctors cut the segment of the colon containing the tumor, close the lower end, and bring the upper end of the colon out to create an artificial anus.

The immediate goal is to resolve the bowel obstruction, reduce the risk of complications, and help the patient safely navigate the emergency phase. After recovery, the patient will undergo further evaluation to determine the course of cancer treatment.

According to the doctor, when the colon is significantly dilated and the risk of anastomotic leakage is high, Hartmann's surgery is the appropriate option. After the emergency phase, doctors will continue to assess the patient to develop a cancer treatment strategy.

By the fifth day after surgery, the patient's condition was progressing favorably. The abdomen was soft, the colostomy was functioning, and drainage was stable. Blood pressure and blood sugar were under control.

The patient is conscious, in good spirits, and continues to receive post-operative monitoring and care. After the emergency condition stabilizes, specialists will conduct a full assessment of the disease stage to develop a further treatment plan.

Based on this case, doctors advise against ignoring persistent gastrointestinal abnormalities such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation or unusual diarrhea, changes in bowel habits, bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss.

According to Vtcnews.vn