A man comes to emergency with stab injury to left flank. He has stable vitals. What would be the next step in management.
High-Yield Explanation
According to EAST Guidelines “Current recommendations for nonoperative management of penetrating trauma include use of Triple Contrast CT (IV, oral and rectal) and serial examinations.”
• Gunshot Abdominal Wounds:
−− Chances of internal injury is very high in gunshot wounds, thus little pre-operative evaluation is required and laparotomy is mandatory.
• Stab Wounds to Abdomen:
−− Exploratory laparotomy is indicated in patients with isolated penetrating abdominal wound if hypotensive or in shock or showing peritoneal signs.