[Hepatic trauma--a 10-year Swedish study. Conservative treatment generally the best option when the circulation is...

We studied retrospectively 60 patients with hepatic injuries, 30 of which were referrals. Blunt trauma dominated (90%). Twelve unstable patients had immediate surgery and 41 an initial CT-scan. The injury was graded according to the Liver Injury Scale (AAST). Moderate injuries (grade I-II) were seen in 40 patients, of which 29 had successful conservative treatment. Fifteen of the severe injuries required surgery. Minimally invasive techniques facilitated management of postoperative complications. In all, 16 died, 4 due to the hepatic injury. The material presented is small and heterogeneous, but our results are similar to those reported internationally. A multidisciplinary approach facilitates management.