Acute pancreatitis, a rare complication of afferent loop obstruction: A case report

Afferent loop (A-loop) obstruction presenting as acute pancreatitis is a rare clinical entity. We report a case of A-loop obstruction that occurred 15 years after Billroth II gastrectomy, leading to acute pancreatitis and accompanied by duodenal perforation and peritonitis. A 63-year-old man complaining of upper abdominal pain, distention, and nausea was referred to our hospital. The patient was previously treated with antibiotics and gastrointestinal decompression at the primary healthcare institute after being diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. However, the symptoms did not improve. Upon inter-hospital transportation, he experienced a period of relief from the pain but soon developed signs of diffuse peritonitis. Laboratory examination showed elevated serum amylase and lipase. A computed tomography scan revealed slight edema of the pancreas, a dilated and fluid-filled bowel loop across the mid-abdomen, and fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and pelvis. An emergency laparotomy was conducted, followed by symptomatic treatments. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged in 4 weeks.