Differential Diagnosis for Post-Operative Pain and Fever after Transverse Resection of Colon
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Surgical Site Infection (SSI): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presence of pain and fever after a surgical procedure. SSIs are a common complication of colorectal surgery, and the transverse colon is a high-risk area due to its location and blood supply.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Intra-Abdominal Abscess: A collection of pus in the abdominal cavity can cause pain and fever, and is a possible complication of colon surgery.
- Anastomotic Leak: A leak at the site of the surgical anastomosis can lead to infection, abscess, and peritonitis, causing pain and fever.
- Ileus: A temporary paralysis of the intestinal muscles can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and fever, and is a common post-operative complication.
- Pneumonia: Post-operative pneumonia is a common cause of fever and pain, especially in patients who have undergone abdominal surgery.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Bowel Obstruction: A mechanical obstruction of the intestine can cause severe pain, vomiting, and fever, and requires prompt surgical intervention to prevent bowel damage.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening condition caused by an overwhelming infection, sepsis can present with pain, fever, and hemodynamic instability.
- Hemorrhage: Post-operative bleeding can cause pain, fever, and hemodynamic instability, and requires prompt surgical intervention to control the bleeding.
Rare Diagnoses
- Adhesive Disease: A rare condition caused by the formation of adhesions between the intestine and other abdominal organs, adhesive disease can cause bowel obstruction and pain.
- Stump Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendiceal stump can cause pain and fever, and is a rare complication of colon surgery.
- Gastrointestinal Fistula: An abnormal connection between the intestine and another organ or the skin can cause pain, fever, and malabsorption, and is a rare complication of colon surgery.