Delayed Tension Symptomatic Pneumoperitoneum After POEM Requiring Needle Decompression.

INTRODUCTION

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an effective modality for the management of achalasia. Tension pneumoperitoneum is a significant complication that causes hemodynamic instability, generally within the periprocedural period.

METHODS

Here, we report 2 cases of delayed tension pneumoperitoneum that was recognized and treated several hours after uncomplicated POEM.

RESULTS

These cases illustrate the importance of continued vigilance for this complication outside of the immediate periprocedural period as well as the utility of computed tomography-guided aspiration in managing it.

DISCUSSION: When discharging patients after POEM, caregivers should be aware of this rare complication and alert patients to return for immediate care when it happens.