AN EXPERIENCE OF SOLID ORGAN INJURY FROM BLUNT ABDOMINAL TRAUMA: A STUDY OF 45 CASES

The present study aims to analyse the cause, presentation, diagnostic method, management and the outcome of solid organ injuries from blunt abdominal trauma. Blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) is a frequent medical emergency. The morbidity and mortality associated with this type of trauma is quite significant if the diagnosis of the same is delayed or managed aggressively. Trauma is the second largest cause of disease accounting for 16 percent of global burden. According to the World Health Organisation estimates, by 2020, trauma will be the main cause of loss of productive life for the entire world population. The study comprises of 45 patients with blunt abdominal trauma, who were found to be suffering from liver and spleen injuries. Out of 45 patients, 30 of them were treated conservatively. And remaining 15 of them were subject to surgical procedure. The present study analysed patients with respect to the cause, presentation diagnostic methods, associated injuries, treatment and mortality of blunt abdominal trauma. The study sample consisted of patients in the age group of 21 to 35 years with an M: F ratio of 8:1. The most common cause of injury was motor vehicle accident (86 percent). Injury of spleen was involved in 55 percent of the cases, Rib fracture in 22 percent of the cases was the common extra abdominal injury. The mortality rate was 4 percent. The most common complications was wound sepsis in 11 percent of the patients. The vital part of management is initial resuscitation measures, complete clinical examination and correct diagnosis. Conservative management was carried out in 66 percent of the patients with splenic and liver injuries. The time of presentation of patients, early diagnosis and prompt treatment would save lives.