Introduction:
Chest compressions are performed routinely and have several well-known complications, however one of the rare complications is pneumoperitoneum caused by air entry through a perforation of the viscus. The exact cause of the perforation is not always clear. Furthermore, this rarely reported condition does not have clear management guidelines.
Presentation of case:
We present an uncommon complication of pneumoperitoneum following successful resuscitation possibly caused by the presence of an orogastric tube at the time of compressions in a 79 year old Hispanic male. Following chest compressions, a distended and tympanic abdomen was noted and air seen under the diaphragm in X-ray imaging.
Discussion:
A review of previous case reports along with etiology and evaluation of risk factors is presented.
Conclusion:
Although the exact cause of pneumoperitoneum cannot be confirmed, emergency personnel should be aware of the risk factors associated with viscus perforation during chest compressions.