Abstract
After 2 fatalities from this condition at our institution in 2005, a retrospective review of elective surgical records from the previous five years was undertaken and we established 16 further non-fatal cases of Ogilvie’s Syndrome. (This work was presented as a poster at the Christchurch NZOA 2005). We have since prospectively recorded any occurrence of Ogilvie’s Syndrome after elective orthopaedic surgery.
Over the last 2 years since the previous report, we have identified a further 8 cases of Ogilvie’s Syndrome, with one further fatality. This little-known condition is far more prevalent than thought, and is often not diagnosed despite severe consequences. All surgeons should be aware of this condition. Early recognition and intervention is critical to patient survival. Hallmarks of the clinical presentation will be discussed, along with acute management guidelines.
Correspondence should be addressed to: Associate Professor N. Susan Stott, Orthopaedic Department, Starship Children’s Hospital, Private Bag 92024, Auckland, New Zealand.
