Intestinal ischemia due to methamphetamine use: A case report. (2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choi, Kihoon; Imrie, Andrew; Lourie, Rohan; Cross, Trent
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery case reports. Volume 58(2019)
• Page Start: 11
• Page End: 13
• Publication Date: 2019
• Subjects: Case report -- Methamphetamine -- Intestinal ischemia -- Intestinal gangrene; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2019.03.061
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-2612

Abstract

Highlights: Methamphetamine is associated with non-occlusive intestinal ischemia. Splanchnic vasocontriction of mesenteric and colonic vessels is the most likely cause of methamphetamine-induced intestinal ischemia. Surgeons should have a high index of suspicion for intestinal ischemia in methamphetamine users who present with acute abdominal pain. Abstract: Introduction: Methamphetamine use is a rare cause of intestinal ischemia but is of clinical significance due to its high morbidity and mortality. Knowledge of methamphetamine-induced intestinal ischemia has been limited to few case reports. Case presentation: We describe the case of a 48-year-old man who presented with ischemic bowel related to methamphetamine use. With concern for intestinal infarction the patient was taken to the operating room for emergency laparotomy, which found a segmental gangrene of small bowel and colon. The patient subsequently underwent right hemicolectomy and small bowel resection for damage control, followed by second-look laparotomy and anastomosis. The patient recovered well from the surgery and was discharged without complications. Conclusion: This case report alerts surgeons to have a high index of suspicion for intestinal ischemia in methamphetamine users who present with acute abdominal pain.