Wolf develops severe pancreatitis from repeated scorpion stings while illegally harvesting venom. The condition progresses to life-threatening necrotizing pancreatitis with abdominal compartment syndrome, requiring emergency decompressive laparotomy by Dr. Bell in the hallway to save his life.
Also known as: Soft tissue cancer
Tessa is scheduled for experimental titanium rib cage implantation after sarcoma removal. During pre-op, rapidly metastasizing cancer causes pathologic spinal fracture and cord compression requiring emergency decompression before the rib implantation can proceed. The case drives the entire episode as a high-stakes, groundbreaking surgery filmed for a documentary.
Also known as: Severe spinal nerve compression
Tessa develops acute cauda equina syndrome with lower extremity weakness and numbness just before her scheduled rib implantation surgery, caused by tumor erosion of vertebrae and spinal cord compression. This requires emergency neurosurgical decompression.
Also known as: Broken pelvis from weakened bone
Tessa's spinal vertebrae have been weakened by metastatic cancer, resulting in pathologic fracture that requires extensive spinal fusion during the emergency decompression surgery.
Also known as: A-fib
Tessa develops atrial fibrillation with low blood pressure during the lengthy spinal and rib implantation surgeries, requiring medication management and creating additional surgical risk.
Also known as: Pressure buildup in the belly
Wolf's severe pancreatitis causes dangerous abdominal compartment syndrome with elevated bladder pressure, compressing his IVC and compromising blood flow to his heart. This necessitates emergency bedside laparotomy when he loses his pulse.
Also known as: MS
Bell experiences worsening MS symptoms including racing heart, ringing in ears, and room spinning—possibly anxiety from stress or medication side effects or disease progression. He considers returning to Minnesota for treatment. This is part of his ongoing health arc and connects to the political smear article about his past surgical complications.
Also known as: Fluid in the lungs
Wolf develops pulmonary edema as his pancreatitis worsens, requiring oxygen and leading to respiratory failure necessitating intubation.