Acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg causing cardiac arrest after resection of the right external iliac vein for autologous graft: a case report

BACKGROUND: The right external iliac vein (REIV) is often used for portal vein reconstruction in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy with portal-superior mesenteric vein resection. We report a case of cardiac arrest caused by acute lower leg compartment syndrome as a result of REIV resection. CASE PRESENTATION: A 53-year-old man underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with portal vein resection. Hyperkalemia progressed during surgery due to intestinal reperfusion injury, which caused recurrent ventricular arrhythmia required for cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. The surgery was discontinued after resuscitation, and portal vein reconstruction using the REIV was performed 2 days post-operatively. Acute compartment syndrome was diagnosed immediately following the surgery. Hyperkalemia progressed, causing pulseless ventricular tachycardia. Emergent fasciotomy was performed, but right leg dysfunction persisted after discharge. CONCLUSION: REIV resection can cause lower-extremity acute compartment syndrome. The status, including intracompartmental pressure, of the lower extremity should be carefully observed after REIV resection during and after surgery.