Glutaraldehyde-induced bowel injury after laparoscopy.

We document the sequelae of the inadvertent introduction of glutaraldehyde into the peritoneal cavity. It describes the clinical course, progressive histological changes to the bowel at different periods over the course of 1 year, and what long-term morbidity remains. The chemical structure, effects, and pathogenesis of glutaraldehyde are described as well as suggestions for avoiding similar problems in the future.