Work

Falciform ligament torsion as a rare aetiology of the acute abdomen

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: The falciform ligament is a remnant of the embryonic ventral mesentery containing the obliterated umbilical vein and round ligament. It extends from the umbilicus to the superior aspect of the diaphragm. We report about a 53-year-old fit and well patient who presented with acute upper abdominal pain with tenderness to palpation. Ultrasound scan was unremarkable, but blood tests revealed raised inflammatory markers. Thus, computed tomography was performed. This demonstrated acute torsion and fat necrosis of the falciform ligament, which was the aetiology of the upper abdominal pain. Such pathology is rare with 23 previously reported cases. Conservative management is usually proposed, but on occasion, surgical intervention may be warranted in cases that do not respond to initial supportive measures. We describe this case to demonstrate a rare cause of a common presentation to the surgical service.

Source: Journal of Surgical Case Reports

DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjab150

Authors: Adam O’Connor, Shariq Sabri, Maseera Solkar, Amaila Ramzan, Mamoon Solkar

Institution: Tameside Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Omental and Epiploic Conditions

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $903