Chylous ascites following liver resection--case report

Abstract

Chylous ascites is an intraperitoneal collection of fluid that appears milky because of the presence of unusual amounts of fat. It is a result of interference, interruption, or obstruction of lymph flow through chyle-transporting vessels, and remains rare as a complication of surgical intervention. Liver resection has been infrequently reported as a cause of chylous ascites. We report a case of chylous ascites developing after laparotomy and right lobe liver resection, which was diagnosed early and managed conservatively with minimal morbidity. The key lies in awareness of the condition, early diagnosis, and aggressive management with nutritional support.