Modern management of omental torsion and omental infarction: a surgeon's perspective

Are all primary omental infarcts truly idiopathic? Five case reports

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic omental infarction (IOI) is challenging to diagnose due to its low incidence and vague symptoms. Its differential diagnosis also poses difficulties because it can mimic many intra-abdominal organ pathologies. Although hypercoagulability and thrombosis are among the causes of omental infarction, venous thromboembolism scanning is rarely performed as an etiological investigation.

CASE SUMMARY

The medical records of the 5 cases, who had the diagnosis of IOI by computed tomography, were examined. The majority of the patients were male (n = 4, 80%) and the mean age was 31 years (range: 21-38). The patients had no previous abdominal surgery or a history of any chronic disease. The main complaint of all patients was persistent abdominal pain. Omental infarction was detected in all patients with contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Conservative treatment was initially preferred in all patients, but it failed in 1 patient (20%). After discharge, all patients were referred to the hematology department for thrombophilia screening. Only 1 patient applied for thrombophilia screening and was homozygous for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (A1298C mutation) and heterozygous for a factor V Leiden mutation.

CONCLUSION

IOI should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with progressive and/or persistent right side abdominal pain. Investigating risk factors such as hypercoagulability in patients with IOI is also important in preventing future conditions related to venous thromboembolism.

Omental torsion mimicking acute appendicitis: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Omental torsion is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain caused by twisting of the omentum along its long axis, thus compromising its vascularity. Its presentation is non-specific and can mimic other common pathologies, making its pre-operative diagnosis challenging.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 44-year-old female presented for periumbilical abdominal pain. Her laboratory results showed no leukocytosis and CRP was within normal range. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with oral and IV contrast showed a well demarcated pericecal mass at the right side, mostly suggestive of transmesenteric internal herniation with strangulation. The patient eventually required laparoscopic surgical intervention.

DISCUSSION

The acute abdominal manifestations in patients with omental torsion are due to the development of edema and necrotic tissue distal of the torsion after the arterial supply and venous drainage have been obstructed. Rotation around the right gastroepiploic artery is considered to be the most common cause of omental torsion. Primary torsion is considered to be idiopathic, while secondary torsion occurs due to an identifiable predisposing pathology such as omental cysts, hernias, adhesions, or intra-abdominal tumors. Since symptoms of omental torsion are non-specific, it is crucial to consider the differential diagnosis and rule out other causes of acute abdomen. Surgical intervention is the mainstay treatment when there is uncertainty in the diagnosis, or when the patient's clinical, radiological, and laboratory findings worsen with conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Early surgical intervention in cases of omental torsion reduces the incidence of formation of abscesses, adhesions, and omental necrosis. In cases of non-operative candidates, conservative treatment is the best option; therefore, the choice of treatment of omental torsion should be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Spontaneous omental infarction in an obese young female patient treated with laparoscopy: a case report

Partial infarction of the great omentum is a rare cause of abdominal pain and may present as a surgical emergency. Omental infarction might occur due to its torsion, but cases without obvious cause are reported. Risk factors related to this condition are overweight, obesity, abdominal trauma, recent abdominal surgery, hypercoagulability, postprandial vascular congestion and an increase in intra-abdominal pressure. Because of the condition's rarity, most patients are treated with surgery and the diagnosis is established intraoperatively. Preoperative diagnosis allows successful conservative treatment with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. This case reports a young female patient with class III obesity presented with spontaneous partial infarction of the great omentum treated with laparoscopy.

Primary omental infarction - a benign cause of acute abdomen

Objectives

Omental infarction (OI) is an uncommon cause of acute abdominal pain. A high index of clinical suspicion is required for diagnosis of OI as the incidence is less than 1 %, presenting with abdominal pain. We report primary OI's clinical and radiological profile from a single tertiary care hospital in India.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, the electronic medical and radiology records of patients with abdominal pain were reviewed over seven years (2015-2022). Variables were systematically collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 22 patients diagnosed with primary OI were included in this study. Male preponderance (63.6 %) was noted with a mean age of 47.45 years (SD ± 13.84; range: 18-72 years). Most patients belonged to class I obesity (according to the Asia-Pacific body mass index classification) with a mean BMI of 26.56 kg/m2 (SD ± 3.21 kg/m2). All patients had abdominal pain as the primary symptom, with a mean duration of 8.64 days (SD ± 10.15; range: 1-42 days). The most common locations of pain were the right hypochondrium (27.3 %) and diffuse (27.3 %), followed by the right iliac fossa (18.1 %). Most (95.45 %, n=21/22) patients were treated conservatively, and only one required surgical intervention.

Conclusions

Primary OI is a rare and benign cause of acute abdomen. Obesity is a risk factor but does not correlate with the size or severity of OI. Radiological imaging, like a computed tomography (CT) scan, is essential for diagnosis. A conservative management line should be the first approach in treating primary OI before considering surgical options.

Diagnostic challenge: Secondary omental torsion misdiagnosed as acute appendicitis-A case report

This case presents a diagnostic challenge in a 28-year-old male initially evaluated for severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation, leading to the presumption of post-appendectomy complications. Clinical examination revealed abdominal distension, tenderness, and signs of peritonism, along with a reducible inguinal hernia. On subsequent CT scan, a large, inflamed area of omentum localized to the right abdomen extending up to the defect in the inguinal region with mild ascites was revealed. Upon exploration, it was discovered that the patient's initial surgery had focused solely on an appendix deemed mildly inflamed by the operating surgeon, while a concurrent diagnosis of secondary omental torsion was missed. This oversight underscores the challenges in diagnosing abdominal pathologies, with the initial misdiagnosis leading to ongoing patient distress. Meticulous adhesiolysis and omentectomy were performed, resulting in the resolution of the patient's symptoms.

Computed tomography of a canine omental torsion secondary to a chronic abdominal gossypiboma and concurrent incidental broad ligament torsion

A 5-year-old female spayed Dogue de Bordeaux was referred for concerns of an abdominal mass and peritoneal effusion. Abdominal radiographs identified a mid-ventral abdominal soft tissue opaque mass containing a radiopaque marker consistent with a gossypiboma. Contrast-enhanced abdominal CT identified two whirl signs associated with the abdominal gossypiboma. Exploratory laparotomy confirmed an omental torsion with encapsulated gossypiboma and concurrent incidental torsion of the remnant of the right broad ligament. Based on a literature review, omental torsions are an unreported complication of gossypibomas in canids.

Primary segmental omental torsion, mimicking acute appendicitis

Primary segmental omental torsion (PSOT) is a very rare cause of acute abdominal pain, and it may often imitate the clinical picture of acute appendicitis. In instances of acute abdominal pain without anorexia, nausea, and vomiting, omental torsion should be included in the differential diagnosis. Any misdiagnosis may lead to major complications such as intraabdominal abscesses and adhesions. A 63-year-old overweight man with a body mass index (BMI) of 41 Kg/m2 presented to the emergency department on a remote island with acute abdominal pain. His medical history included type 2 diabetes mellitus managed with insulin, essential hypertension, osteoarthritis, and no previous abdominal operations. He reported a sharp pain originating in the epigastrium and the right hypochondrium that started five days prior. Physical examination revealed rebound tenderness and guarding across the abdomen with a positive McBurney sign. However, the patient did not report vomiting and was not nauseous. Vital signs were as follows: blood pressure 116/56 mmHg, heart rate 98 beats/min, respiratory rate 19 breaths/min, and a temperature of 38.2 0C. Laboratory results showed a white blood cell count of 10.6, neutrophils of 8.11, C-reactive protein (CRP) 74 mg/l, haemoglobin11.6 g/dl, and hematocrit 36.9%. Due to the absence of a radiographer at the hospital during that period, no imaging investigations were conducted. Diagnostic laparoscopy demonstrated diffused hemoperitoneum and necrotic mass at the site of the hepatic flexure. Initially suspected to be an advanced colon cancer, the decision was made to proceed with open surgery. The necrotic segment of the omentum was found at the right superior point of attachment of the omentum to the hepatic flexure. Consequently, the necrotic segment of the omentum was resected. A thorough investigation of the abdominal cavity did not detect any other abnormalities or pathologies. The patient recovered uneventfully and was transferred to the surgical ward. Torsion of the omentum is a very rare cause of acute abdominal pain. This case highlights the necessity of considering PSOT in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain, especially in cases where symptoms are suggestive of appendicitis but diagnostic findings are negative.

Omental infarction mimicking acute appendicitis with negative radiological findings

A male in his 30s presented to the emergency department with a 1-day history of supra-umbilical pain migrating to the right iliac fossa. On examination, his abdomen was soft but tender with localised guarding in the right iliac fossa and a positive Rovsing's sign. The patient was admitted under a presumptive diagnosis of acute appendicitis. A CT scan and ultrasound scan of the abdomen and pelvis showed no acute intra-abdominal pathology. He stayed in hospital for 2 days for observation without improvement of symptoms. A diagnostic laparoscopy was therefore performed that revealed an infarcted omentum adherent to the abdominal wall and ascending colon causing congestion of the appendix. The infarcted omentum was resected, and the appendix was removed. The CT images were reviewed by multiple consultant radiologists, but no positive findings were appreciated. This case report demonstrates the potential difficulty in diagnosing omental infarction clinically and radiologically.

Omental torsion; an unusual case of acute abdomen. Case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Omental torsion as a cause of acute abdominal pain is extremely rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively given the non-specific clinical picture.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report the case of an adult male who went to the emergency room due to abdominal pain, presented clinical symptoms and laboratory findings consistent with acute appendicitis but was diagnosed intraoperatively with omental torsion and associated necrosis, which was successfully treated by laparoscopic omentectomy.

DISCUSSION

It is a rare entity with a low incidence. The symptoms of the cases reported in the literature are usually confused with other abdominal pathologies such as appendicitis or cholecystitis, so preoperative diagnosis continues to be a challenge. The treatment of choice is the laparoscopic approach, since it allows confirming the diagnosis, evaluating the severity of the ischemia, and ruling out other surgical pathologies.

CONCLUSION

It is important to consider omental torsion as another differential diagnosis of acute abdomen, which can be satisfactorily resolved via laparoscopy, thus avoiding the development of complications associated with its natural evolution.

Omental infarction found incidentally during metastatic workup: A report of 2 cases

Omental infarction is an uncommon cause of acute abdominal pain that can occur in different several locations. We report 2 cases of omental infarction diagnosed at computed tomography (CT) scan performed as part of routine oncological surveillance, one right-sided and the other left sided. This paper illustrates the range of CT scan findings and highlights the important clinical implications of this radiological diagnosis.

Omental infarction and anterior wall adhesion presenting as surgical abdomen in a pediatric patient

Omental infarction is a rare cause of acute abdomen that can present in both the pediatric and adult populations causing adhesions or abscesses. Presentation may mimic appendicitis; however, ultrasonography may not be sufficient. We discuss the importance of CT imaging for the pre‐surgical diagnosis to avoid serious port‐site injuries.

A challenging case of spontaneous idiopathic omental infarction in a trisomy 21 patient

Background

Omental infarction (OI) is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain that is often missed out. Due to its non-specific presentation can mimic other commoner conditions such as acute appendicitis, acute diverticulitis, and tuberculosis abdomen.

Case presentation

We present a 42-year-old gentleman with trisomy 21 presenting right iliac fossa pain. Examination revealed tenderness in the right lower quadrant and blood parameters showed leucocytosis. With an initial impression of acute appendicitis, the patient was subjected to surgery. Intraoperatively, there were abnormalities to the omentum suggestive of OI, resulting in partial omentectomy. Symptom resolution occurred immediately and the patient was discharged early.

Conclusion

OI is a rare cause of acute abdomen that can mimic other abdominal pathologies. In trisomy 21 patients who present with acute abdomen, thorough assessments including preoperative imaging are advisable. Diagnostic laparoscopy is recommended as OI can be managed via minimally invasive surgery, hence ensuring good surgical outcomes.

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Omental infarction (OI) is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain that is often misdiagnosed, especially among those who present with right iliac fossa pain.

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In trisomy 21 patients who present with acute abdomen, thorough assessments including preoperative imaging are advisable.

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Diagnostic laparoscopy is recommended as OI can be managed via minimally invasive surgery, hence to ensure good surgical outcomes.

Acute abdomen caused by torsion of the omentum: A pediatric case report

RATIONALE

Torsion of the omentum and infarction are rare and unusual disorders that often present as acute abdominal pain in the population. The diagnosis of omental torsion is based on clinical and imaging examinations.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 7-year-old girl presented with acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain, with symptoms resembling acute appendicitis.

DIAGNOSIS

The patient was diagnosed with omental torsion based on imaging and laparoscopy.

INTERVENTIONS

Laparoscopic exploration was performed.

OUTCOMES

The patient was discharged seven days after satisfactory postoperative recovery.

LESSONS

Omental torsion should be included in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain, particularly in patients with free hemorrhagic fluid in the abdominal cavity and pelvis.

Omental infarction present with right upper quadrant pain, case report

Omental infarction is a rare cause of pain and must be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen. It arises in any quadrant that contains omentum when a compromised blood supply takes place. We report a morbid obese 45-year-old male with Diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and coronavirus-disease-related pneumonia 2 months prior to his emergency presentation with acute epigastric and right upper quadrant pain. The patient was investigated by computed tomography (CT), and the provisional diagnosis was biliary colic from gallbladder stone. The patient’s pain was severe and not compatible with biliary colic. Diagnostic laparoscopy approached and an incidental finding of omental necrotic area. Excision of the infarcted omentum in addition to cholecystectomy was done. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged home after 2 days. In our case, the CT image did not discover mental changes that may help us to make a preoperative diagnosis.

Omental Infarction: An Underrecognized Cause of Right-Sided Acute Abdominal Pain in Children

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of omental infarction (OI) in children with suspected appendicitis, the role of ultrasonography (US) in its diagnosis and management and the efficacy of conservative management.

METHODS

Consecutive children with suspected acute appendicitis were prospectively enrolled. Ultrasonography was performed at baseline, during follow-up, before the discharge, and at 15-day intervals until US findings of OI disappeared. All children with a diagnosis of OI were treated conservatively.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-nine children (91 male; age range, 3-15 years) were evaluated. Eighty-four patients had acute appendicitis. Omental infarctions were found in 14 children (8 male; mean age, 9.8 ± 2.6 years), with an incidence of 7%. Ultrasonography depicted an echogenic mass consistent with OI in all children. Ultrasonography detected in 8 patients a normal-looking appendix, whereas in other 6 patients, it identified neither appendix nor indirect signs of acute appendicitis. A normal appendix has been detected by US during follow-up in 2 of these 6 patients. During follow-up, US finding of OI disappeared in all cases and no signs of acute appendicitis or other disease occurred. All 14 OIs were treated conservatively, with no reported complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Omental infarction is an underestimated cause of abdominal pain in children accounting for 7% of patients with suspected appendicitis. Ultrasonography is a useful method for the diagnoses and to guide clinical management of OI. Conservative therapy is a safe option for the management of OI.

Acute Omental Infarction Mimicking Acute Appendicitis

Acute abdominal pain is a common cause of visits to the emergency department. Acute appendicitis remains the most common indication for abdominal surgical intervention in the pediatric age group. However, several conditions may present with a clinical picture similar to that of acute appendicitis. We report the case of a 7-year-old girl with a history of right lower quadrant abdominal pain of two days in duration. The pain was associated with vomiting and was exacerbated by movement. Abdominal examination revealed a localized tenderness in the right iliac fossa with guarding, giving the impression of acute appendicitis. After a thorough investigation, the patient was diagnosed as having acute omental infarction given the radiological findings seen in the computed tomography scan. The patient was successfully managed conservatively with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Physicians should keep a high index of suspicion for this condition when encountering a patient presenting with an acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain. Imaging modalities play a pivotal role in making the diagnosis.

Non-operative management of primary omental torsion, a case report and literature review

Primary omental torsion is a rare cause of acute abdomen especially in obese patients with inconsistent history, examination, and laboratory findings. The liberal use of computed tomography in casualties has increased its preoperative diagnosis. Despite the controversy, the non-operative approach should be attempted as a first line of management while the laparoscopic resection should be only considered after failure of non-operative management.

Primary omental torsion diagnosed and treated laparoscopically: a case report

Omental torsion, a rare cause of acute abdomen in children and adults, is difficult to correctly diagnose before surgery because it mimics the common causes of acute surgical abdomen. We present a case of greater omental torsion that was diagnosed by laparoscopy. A 37-year-old man presented with right lower abdominal pain and was suspected to have appendicitis. Blood tests revealed elevated C-reactive protein and white blood cell count, whereas computed tomography revealed a nodular mass and high-density lesions in the fat tissue. As the patient's abdominal symptoms were severe and a clear diagnosis could not be made, we performed exploratory laparoscopy. Laparoscopy revealed omental torsion, and an omentectomy was performed. The patient's pain had significantly reduced post-surgery, and post-operative recovery was uneventful. Thus, laparoscopic examination is useful for accurately diagnosing omental torsion and is less invasive than surgery.

Diagnosis and Management of Adult Omental Infarction: 10-Year Case Series

BACKGROUND

Omental infarction is a rare cause of an acute abdomen with nonspecific signs that can be easily mistaken with other more common intra-abdominal pathologies. The increased use of radiological imaging has brought this diagnosis to attention with respect to management plan. We present the experience of an Australian hospital network with the diagnosis and management of omental infarction to raise awareness of this uncommon pathology.

METHODS

A retrospective review of medical records of adult patients diagnosed with omental infarction from 2010 to 2020 was conducted across four major hospitals in South Western Sydney. Data relating to clinical presentation, investigations, management and outcomes were obtained.

RESULTS

Omental infarction was diagnosed in 61 patients (mean 51.1 years, range: 19-76 years old). All patients presented with nonspecific abdominal pain with the most common sites being the right iliac fossa followed by the right upper quadrant, respectively, over an average period of 2.7 days. Computed tomography and/or diagnostic laparoscopy identified omental infarction in all cases. Forty-two patients (68.9%) had successful conservative management, six failed conservative management and 19 patients had emergency laparoscopic omentectomy. The average hospital length of stay was 3.4 days with no significant morbidity or mortality.

CONCLUSION

Omental infarction generally presents with nonspecific clinical signs often masquerading as other more common abdominal diagnosis like cholecystitis or appendicitis. A trial of conservative management initially coupled with appropriate imaging should be recommended within the first 24-48 h before considering surgical treatment in refractory cases.

Laparoscopic Management of Primary Omental Torsion

Primary omental torsion is an unusual condition, known for its rarity and for the particularity of being intraoperatively diagnosed, in nearly all cases. At the clinical evaluation, this pathology commonly mimics other etiologies of acute abdomen. Hemoperitoneum and necrosis of the omentum are rarely associated with the omental torsion, but when the association is found, then it means that the vascular injuries are irreversible and the required surgical procedure may be far more complex than simple devolvulus. In search of the treatment of choice, laparoscopy proved its effectiveness as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool, while the open surgery approach can be described in many cases as being too invasive. A 37-year-old female patient presented with the generic symptoms of acute appendicitis. Surgical treatment was initiated. During laparoscopy, the abdomen was attentively explored, highlighting the presence of a twisted omentum with hemoperitoneum and necrosis. Omental excision and peritoneal drainage were performed. The evolution was favorable. Another check-up was done at 6 months postoperatively, displaying no signs or symptoms of relapse.

Omental Infarction Imitating Acute Appendicitis

A 26-year-old male patient with no significant past history presented with a two-day illness of nausea and abdominal pain, mimicking acute appendicitis. The appendix was poorly visualized on the ultrasound scan so a CT scan was done which revealed infarction of the omentum on the right side of the abdomen. The patient was closely monitored and managed conservatively with analgesics, fluids and antibiotics. Spontaneous improvement occurred in a day, and oral feeding was resumed. The clinical course was uncomplicated, and the patient was discharged, circumventing unnecessary surgery. Literature search has revealed that omental infarction is a rare cause of acute abdomen and it can mimic acute appendicitis or cholecystitis. The treatment needs to be individualized, and surgery may or may not be required.

"Tethered Fat Sign": The Sonographic Sign of Omental Infarction

Our purpose is to describe the ultrasound sign for a correct non-invasive diagnosis of omental infarction in children. From January 2014 to December 2018, a total of 234 children (109 boys and 125 girls, age range 3-15 y) with acute right-sided abdominal pain, admitted to our hospital with a presumptive diagnosis of acute appendicitis, were prospectively evaluated. In all patients, abdominal ultrasound was performed, and the omental fat was always evaluated. In 228 patients, the omental fat resulted to be normal or hyperechogenic, never tethered, and they results affected by other causes of abdominal pain different from omental infarction (such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, urolithiasis and others). In the remaining 6 children, we found a hyperechoic mass between the anterior abdominal wall and the ascending or transverse colon in the right abdomen quadrant, suggesting the diagnosis of omental infarction. This subhepatic mass was always tethered to the abdominal wall, motionless during respiratory excursions. We named this finding the "tethered fat sign." The diagnosis was confirmed with laparoscopy in 4 children. The other 2 children were treated with conservative therapy. In these 2 patients, a sonographic follow-up was performed, showing a progressive reduction in size of the right-sided hyperechoic mass. In conclusion, our study suggests that the presence of the "tethered fat sign" may be an accurate sonographic sign for non-invasive diagnosis of omental infarction in children.

Omental Torsion and Infarction Secondary to Omental Hernia in the Right Inguinal Canal

Omental torsion secondary to inguinal hernia has rarely been reported as a cause of acute abdominal pain. However, in our case, omental infarction due to prolonged inguinal hernia-associated omental torsion led to the formation of a large omental mass with marginal fibrosis, and the patient presented with chronic abdominal pain. A 74-year-old man presented with complaints of lower abdominal pain for 1 month; subsequently, bilateral inguinal hernias were identified through inguinal ultrasonography. CT scans revealed that the greater omentum was trapped within the right inguinal canal, leading to omental torsion. The greater omentum, distal to the pedicle, appeared as a 30 cm-sized oblong fibrofatty mass in the right lower abdomen and pelvic cavity. Laparoscopic omentectomy with hernia repair was successfully performed.

Omental Infarction with Acute Appendicitis in an Overweight Young Female: A Rare Presentation

Omental infarction is an uncommon cause of acute abdomen but one that clinically mimics more serious and common causes of acute abdomen like appendicitis and cholecystitis. Historically, it was diagnosed only intraoperatively during surgery for presumed appendicitis or other causes of acute abdomen. But with the increase in the use of imaging, especially abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan in the work-up for acute abdomen, more cases of omental infarction are being diagnosed preoperatively. This has also led to the observation that omental infarction is a self-limiting condition which can be managed conservatively. Currently, conservative management and surgery are the only treatment options for omental infarction with no consensus as to the best treatment modality. Having a patient with both acute appendicitis and omental infarction simultaneously is extremely rare with only two reported cases in the literature thus far. Here, we present a 10-year-old obese female who presented to our hospital with acute abdomen and was found to have acute appendicitis and omental infarction. The patient underwent laparoscopic appendectomy and resection of the infarcted omentum and had uneventful recovery and was discharged on the second postoperative day. In this report, we present a review of current literature on omental infarction and highlight the importance of imaging especially abdominal CT scan in the nonoperative diagnosis and treatment of omental infarction.

Idiopathic segmental infarction of the omentum mimicking acute appendicitis: A case report

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Omentum infarction occurs due to torsion, infections and vascular thrombosis.

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Primary idiopathic segmental omental infarction is rare.

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Clinically it is difficult to differentiate from acute appendicitis.

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Idiopathic omental infarction should be included in the differential diagnoses while treating patient with acute abdomen.

Introduction

Omentum is a well vascularized organ. Omentum infarction is uncommon. Most of the cases are secondary due to torsion, intra-abdominal infections and vascular thrombosis. Primary idiopathic segmental omental infarction is rare.

Presentation of case

A 26-year-old male presented with acute onset right iliac fossa pain mimicking acute appendicitis. On radiological imaging, early acute appendicitis was suspected. On diagnostic laparoscopy, appendix appeared normal and there was idiopathic infarction of a part of the greater omentum lying close to the cecum. Patient underwent laparoscopic appendectomy with excision of the diseased segment of the omentum and had uneventful recovery.

Conclusion

Idiopathic omental infarction should be included in the differential diagnoses while treating patient with acute abdomen.

Diagnosis and management of omental infarction in children: Our 10 year experience with ultrasound

AIM

To review children with Omental Infarction (OI) and the role of Ultrasound Scan (US) in its diagnosis and management.

METHODS

Cases of OI were identified retrospectively from 2004 to 2014 through screening of admission coding, pathology databases and radiology records. Demographic, clinical and pathological data were extracted from case records.

MAIN RESULTS

30 cases were identified (17 male, 13 female). Mean age was 10.7years (range 3.5-17.2). The majority of the patients were grossly overweight, with 83.3% of patients weighing greater than the mean for their age. All patients underwent at least one US, 4 had a repeat US and 1 patient also had a CT to rule out appendicitis after a US demonstrating OI. OI was demonstrated in 26 initial USs; in 4 cases initial USs were negative but repeat USs correctly detected OI. In 34 USs the appendix was identified on 20 occasions (15 normal, equivocal in 5). 13 patients underwent surgery, while 17 were managed nonoperatively; 7 underwent omentectomy only, 5 had omentectomy plus appendicectomy and 1 underwent appendicectomy only. All 12 omentectomy specimens were confirmed as OI histologically while none of the 6 appendices showed inflammation histologically. There were no postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

In a large series we have demonstrated the efficacy of US in the diagnosis and management of OI in children. To our knowledge this is the largest series of its kind to date. No patient with OI was incorrectly diagnosed with acute appendicitis or vice versa.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Case Series.

Idiopathic omental infarction: One for conservative or surgical management?

Idiopathic omental infarction (IOI) is a rare cause of right-sided abdominal pain, mimicking serious surgical pathology. It occurs in <4 in 1000 cases of appendicitis. IOI can be a challenge to diagnose, as features may mimic appendicitis, and therefore in young patients, may only be discovered on laparoscopy. CT features can be diagnostic, but due to its rarity the diagnosis may be unclear. The literature supports both conservative management and surgical management (to expedite symptom resolution). We present a case of IOI and discuss our management and learning from the case. We discuss the utility of CT radiology, conservative management and the benefits of non-resection management, even at laparoscopy.

Computed tomography diagnosis of omental infarction presenting as an acute abdomen

Omental infarction is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain. Without the support of radiological evidence, diagnosis is difficult to attain owing to its infrequent incidence, low awareness among clinicians, and its nonspecific presentation that mimics other causes of acute abdomen, namely, acute appendicitis and cholecystitis. Incorrect diagnosis may lead to unnecessary invasive surgery in patients with omental infarction, a disorder that is typically managed conservatively without exposing the patient to intraoperative risks and postoperative morbidity. We report a case of a 61-year-old man who presented to the emergency department with signs of peritonitis. He was eventually diagnosed with omental infarction through computed tomography of the abdomen. He was successfully managed medically with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and antiemetic medications, with complete resolution of his symptoms within 2 weeks.

Secondary Omental Infarction in a Patient with a Hypercoagulable State

Omental infarction is a rare cause of acute and non-specific abdominal pain. We report a case of a 46-year-old man who presented to the emergency room with right upper quadrant cramping pain that was of sudden onset. The patient's presentation was later diagnosed as an omental infarction, by an abdominal CT. After extensive work-up, it was revealed that the cause of the patient's omental infarction was secondary to a hypercoagulable state caused by antiphospholipid syndrome, based on his thrombophilia work-up. The patient was successfully managed conservatively and was started on lifelong anticoagulation. The patient was followed up with an abdominal CT after 2 months into therapy, which showed a decrease in the size of the omental infarction and a significant improvement in his state.

A rare case of acute primary omental infarction

Primary omental infarction (POI) is a rare cause of acute abdomen. Most patients have aggravating abdominal pain without gastrointestinal symptoms. Here, we report a case of omental infarction in a 50-year-old woman, who had left abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed a left ovarian cyst measuring 6.0 cm × 4.5 cm but otherwise seemed normal initially. The white blood cell count was 9.71 × 10⁹/L, and D-dimer was 1.58 mg/L. Laparoscopic exploration was performed 1 day after admission because of peritonitis and intestinal obstruction. During the exploration, a segment of congested necrotic omentum was found adhering to the abdominal wall with a segment of small intestine. Bloody ascites was also observed in the abdominal cavity. We resected the nonviable segmental omentum, and the ovarian cyst was removed by the gynecologist using laparoscopic procedures. Final pathological findings confirmed POI. While reanalyzing the preoperative CT, a segmental fat mass with an increased density was noted in the left lower quadrant, which was consistent with the intraoperative view 6 days after surgery. The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged.

Omental ischemia

Omental ischemia is a rare cause of acute abdomen. Clinical diagnosis is usually difficult because clinical signs and symptoms are similar to other common causes of abdominal pain. The most common differential diagnosis is acute appendicitis. Diagnosis is mainly based on ultrasound, and especially computed tomography scan analysis. There is, at present, no standard treatment modality for omental ischemia. When diagnosed by radiological imaging, omental ischemia can be managed conservatively. We hereby review incidence, etiology, pathology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, biological anomalies, radiological features, and treatment options of omental ischemia.

Torsion of a bifid omentum as a rare cause of acute abdomen: a case report

Background

Omental torsion is a rare and very unusual cause of acute abdominal pain. If often mimics other acute pathologies and it is very difficult to diagnose preoperatively, which can lead to deterioration of the patient. It is seldom reported in the literature.

Case presentation

We report a well-documented case of a 67-year-old white woman who complained about abdominal pain, which was slowly increasing in severity. She had no previous abdominal interventions. An abdominal ultrasound showed multiple gallstones. At laparoscopy, free hemorrhagic fluid was seen and further exploration showed torsion of the right part of her omentum. A partial omentectomy was performed. Her postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusions

Omental torsion is a rare cause of abdominal pain. Primary omental torsion is seldom reported in the literature. Blood examinations are frequently normal. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography can exclude other pathologies. Exploration remains the preferred diagnostic and therapeutic modality. Surgeons should include the diagnosis of omental torsion in their differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain.

Primary omental gangrene mimicking appendicular perforation peritonitis-A case report

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Patient presented as a case of appendicular perofration with pyoperitoneum leading to localized peritonitis which is a common surgical emergency.

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Primary omental torsion is a rare diagnosis and very difficult to diagnose at the emergency room.

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We report a patient with omental torsion and further gangrene of the omentum leading to pyoperitoneum mimicking appendicuar perforation peritonitis.

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A review of literature is also included.

Introduction

Primary omental torsion is a rare cause of acute abdomen in adults and presents with variable signs and symptoms. Establishing a preoperative diagnosis may be difficult in the emergency setting. It is rarely diagnosed preoperatively as it mimics common surgical emergencies such as acute appendicitis, appendicular perforation, acute cholecystitis and perforated peptic ulcers and can lead to the clinical deterioration of patient if missed

Presentation of case

A 47 years old male was taken to the operating room with a diagnosis of appendicular perforation peritonitis and during surgery was found to have a primary omental gangrene with pyoperitoneum, for which omentectomy and peritoneal lavage was performed.

Discussion

Torsion of the omentum is a condition in which the organ twists on its long axis to such an extent that its vascularity is compromised. Omental torsion can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary, depending on an underlying cause. Primary omental torsion was first described by Eitel in 1899. However, very few cases have been reported. Our case was a rare case presenting with omental gangrene with pyoperitoneum mimicking appendicular perforation peritonitis.

Conclusion

Primary omental torsion is a rare diagnosis. A high index of clinical suspicion is required for a preoperative diagnosis. In doubtful cases a CT scan may be helpful. Surgical excision of the omentum remains the treatment of choice; however, conservative management may be attempted in an uncomplicated omental torsion.

Evaluating the Patient with Right Lower Quadrant Pain

Right lower quadrant pain is one of the most common indications for imaging evaluation of the abdomen in the emergency department setting. This article reviews important imaging findings associated with acute appendicitis as well as major differential considerations including: mesenteric adenitis, Meckel diverticulum, neutropenic colitis, right-sided diverticulitis, epiploic appendagitis, omental infarction, and inflammatory bowel diseaseRight lower quadrant pain is one of the most common indications for imaging evaluation of the abdomen in the emergency department setting. This article reviews important imaging findings associated with acute appendicitis as well as major differential considerations including: mesenteric adenitis, Meckel diverticulum, neutropenic colitis, right-sided diverticulitis, epiploic appendagitis, omental infarction, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Postoperative Omental Infarct After Distal Pancreatectomy: Appearance, Etiology Management, and Review of Literature

INTRODUCTION

The clinico-radiological characteristics and the natural history of postoperative omental infarct (OI) in patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy (DP) and splenectomy have not been defined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twelve patients who underwent DP over a period of 2 years and were postoperatively diagnosed with OI based on computed tomography (CT) findings were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 12 patients were diagnosed with an OI based on their postoperative imaging. Seven (58.3 %) patients had previously undergone laparoscopic DP, one (8.3 %) had undergone a robotic DP, and in one (8.3 %), a laparoscopic DP was converted to an open procedure. The remaining three (25.1 %) were treated with open DP. In five (41.6 %) patients, the diagnosis of OI was made during routine follow-up. One patient underwent surgical resection of OI, and two had drains placed in the mass. Nine patients were managed conservatively. During the study period, on review of CT imaging, the minimum prevalence of postoperative OI after DP was found to be 22.8 %. A review of literature identified nine articles that reported a total of 34 patients who were diagnosed with OI after abdominal surgery.

CONCLUSION

The management of an asymptomatic postoperative OI should be conservative while an early invasive intervention should be performed in patients who are symptomatic or have infected OI.

Omental infarction mimicking cholecystitis

Omental infarction can be difficult to diagnose preoperatively as imaging may be inconclusive and patients often present in a way that suggests a more common surgical pathology such as appendicitis. Here, a 40-year-old Caucasian man presented to casualty with shortness of breath and progressive right upper abdominal pain, accompanied with right shoulder and neck pain. Exploratory laparoscopy was eventually utilised to diagnose an atypical form of omental infarction that mimics cholecystitis. The vascular supply along the long axis of the segment was occluded initiating necrosis. In this case, the necrotic segment was adherent with the abdominal wall, a pathology not commonly reported in cases of omental infarction.

Acute Abdomen due to Primary Omental Torsion and Infarction

Background. Torsion of greater omentum is a quite uncommon cause of acute abdomen. It can be primary or secondary but in both cases omentum twists upon itself and causes omental segmentary or diffuse necrosis. Symptoms are unspecific and preoperative diagnosis is difficult. The widespread and increasing use of computer tomography (CT) in differential diagnosis of acute abdomen can be useful for making a specific diagnosis. Objectives. This work aims to describe primary omental torsion in order to help avoid misdiagnosis, especially with acute appendicitis, which is eventually based solely on a physical examination. Case Report. We present a case of primary omental torsion in a young man and discuss contemporary methods in diagnosis and management of the condition. Conclusions. When a right diagnosis has been posed, possible treatments for omental torsion and necrosis are two: conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment had been rarely carried out because of frequent and important sequelae just like abdominal abscesses. Nowadays, surgical treatment, laparoscopic or laparotomic, is preferred because it is a safe method in diagnosis and management of this condition.