The recent report by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed that Lisa Marie Presley’s death in January was caused by a “sequelae of a small bowel obstruction.”
According to a report her death in January was attributed to a “sequelae of a small bowel obstruction.” Lisa Marie Presley, the beloved daughter of the iconic Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley, tragically died hours after being hospitalized following an apparent cardiac arrest on January 12. The medical examiner’s report revealed that she had been experiencing abdominal pain on the morning of her untimely passing.
The autopsy report, obtained recently, featured the professional opinion of Dr. Juan M. Carrillo, the deputy medical examiner, who stated that Presley’s small bowel obstruction was caused by scar tissue, known as adhesions, which had developed after she underwent bariatric surgery several years ago. Carrillo emphasised that this type of complication is a recognized long-term risk associated with such surgery by saying that,“adhesions (or, scar tissue) that developed after bariatric surgery years ago. This is a known long term complication of this type of surgery.”
Importantly, he confirmed that there was no evidence of foul play or injury, deeming the manner of her death as natural.
“There is no evidence of injury or foul play. The manner of death is deemed natural,”
Dr. Carrillo also reviewed the toxicology results from the autopsy, revealing the presence of therapeutic levels of oxycodone in Presley’s bloodstream. These levels indicated the appropriate use of the medication rather than any dangerous misuse. Additionally, traces of quetiapine metabolite, a medication used to treat depression, schizophrenia, or manic episodes, and buprenorphine, a painkiller often used in opioid addiction treatment, were found. However, Dr. Carrillo determined that these substances did not contribute to her death.
Dr. Michael Camilleri, a respected consultant and professor specialising in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Mayo Clinic, explained that the medications discovered in Presley’s system could have potentially slowed down intestinal movement, making it more likely for the obstruction to occur due to the adhesions. He clarified that adhesions can develop in anyone and that the presence of these additional medications does not necessarily indicate a heightened risk for complications.
“And just because there were these other medications on board doesn’t necessarily mean that the person was more prone to develop the complications.”
Dr. Folasade P. May, a medical professional familiar with the case, speculated that Presley experienced a cardiac arrest as a result of severe complications stemming from the small bowel obstruction. This unfortunate situation underscores the challenges and potential risks associated with weight loss journeys and highlights the importance of thorough medical supervision and follow-up care in such circumstances.