Left inferior epigastric artery injury in COVID-19 patient. Case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Management of COVID-19 pneumonia cases is a medical challenge. However, the situation becomes worse if the patient has coexisting morbidities or newly developed complications. The study is about managing rectus sheath haematoma (RSH) in a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia. PRESENTATION OF CASE: The patient was a 75-year-old male, presenting with bilateral COVID-19 pneumonia, with pulmonary embolism complications. Therapeutic anticoagulation by subcutaneous Clexane injection was administered. A left rectus haematoma was observed, and the patient fell and underwent haemorrhagic shock. Laparotomy was done for the evacuation of the haematoma. DISCUSSION: Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is an essential tool for diagnosing RSH, identifying the source of bleeding, type of haematoma, and compression of the urinary system. CONCLUSION: Surgical management of RSH in COVID-19 patients is superior to interventional radiology during the rush pandemic period.