Also known as: Blocked bile ducts
A four-month-old infant undergoes liver transplant for biliary atresia. The transplanted adult liver is too large for the infant's peritoneal cavity, causing compression of hepatic vessels. Dr. Karev innovatively uses a sterilized ping-pong ball to prevent vessel compression while allowing the liver to conform.
Also known as: Torn heart artery
A VIP patient (an Emir) presents after a car accident with a tear in his coronary artery requiring emergency cardiac surgery. He codes multiple times during initial stabilization and requires balloon pump placement and open heart surgery.
Also known as: Burst aneurysm
The same Emir patient had a previously undiagnosed unruptured aneurysm that ruptures during treatment, requiring simultaneous neurosurgery while cardiac surgery is performed. The condition was kept secret for political reasons until discovered during workup.
Also known as: Pancreatic leak
A readmit patient with chronic pancreatitis develops a grade-C pancreatic fistula after surgery. The fistula progresses to a ruptured splenic artery causing fatal hemorrhagic shock despite emergency surgery. The case drives Dr. Bailey to research ways to reduce post-pancreatectomy fistula rates.
The underlying condition for which Louise Cortez originally underwent pancreatectomy surgery, leading to her fatal complications.
Also known as: Schizoaffective disorder
Alex Karev's brother is diagnosed with schizophrenia and attempts to harm their sister, requiring psychiatric commitment. This revelation explains Alex's absence and emotional state throughout the episode, affecting his professional behavior.