Bilateral iliac vein compression secondary to bladder overdistension in a neonate

AbstractWe report the case of a neonate who developed acute venous congestion of the lower limbs after exomphalos repair. Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) was excluded as there were no other clinical and physiological features of this condition. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated bilateral iliac vein compression and massive bladder distension. Relief of the bladder obstruction led to prompt resolution of the venous impairment. Such a condition has not been previously reported and thus pediatric health care providers should be aware that neonatal bladder distension can obstruct venous drainage. Such knowledge may prevent unnecessary decompressive laparotomy