Ascites with a Chance of Flooding: A Rare Complication of Cirrhosis

Abstract

Flood Syndrome, characterized by ruptured umbilical hernias with ascitic fluid leakage in decompensated liver cirrhosis, presents a rare but potentially fatal complication of cirrhotic liver disease. We present a case study of a patient with decompensated cirrhosis who underwent multiple medical encounters before the severity of his condition, characterized by ascitic fluid leakage, was recognized. Flood Syndrome was ultimately identified on admission to the hospital, prompting multidisciplinary interventions and discussions, including antibiotics, surgical consultation, and optimization for hernia repair. Due to the patient’s complexity of his medical condition and surgical risks, a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was performed to alleviate ascites before a planned umbilical hernia repair. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of umbilical hernias in cirrhotic patients and highlights the complexity of management decisions, balancing surgical risks with medical optimization to improve outcomes. Further research is warranted to refine treatment strategies and enhance patient care in Flood Syndrome cases.