A patient who has undergone CABG presents with abdominal distention. What is the likely diagnosis?

In cases where a patient presents with abdominal distention following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, an important consideration is the risk of mesenteric infarction. This condition occurs when blood supply to the intestines is compromised, potentially due to embolism, thrombosis, or other vascular issues. The surgery itself can contribute to this risk, as changes in circulation and manipulation of blood vessels may impact mesenteric blood flow. Symptoms of mesenteric infarction often include acute abdominal pain, distention, and signs of peritonitis, which aligns with the patient’s presentation.

Other conditions can also cause abdominal distention, but they typically present with different clinical features or are less likely in the context of recent surgery. Gastroenteritis, for example, usually involves diarrhea or vomiting, and while it can cause distention, it is less likely after surgery. Ascites may lead to distention but is often seen with signs of liver disease and fluid accumulation rather than acute post-surgical complications. Adhesion obstruction, while a common postoperative complication, tends to present with episodes of colicky pain and changes in bowel habits rather than simply distension.

Thus, mesenteric infarction stands out as a serious complication to consider in this context