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Penetrating abdominal trauma

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Penetration of organs has two main consequences:

  • solid organs bleed and may cause hypovolaemic shock
  • perforation of hollow organs causes peritonitis and infection

The form of penetrating injury is important:

  • low velocity:
    • such as a stab or bullet with a velocity < 200 m/s
    • the tissues traversed by the object are damaged directly

  • high velocity:
    • such as a bullet with a velocity > 200 m/s
    • the shock wave and temporary cavitation result in damage far removed from the trajectory of the object

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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