[CT of intestinal injuries following blunt trauma]

We retrospectively reviewed 53 CT scans in 42 patients with surgically proven intestinal injury following blunt abdominal trauma. Free air and localized low density fluid were specific signs of intestinal injury. Free peritoneal fluid without a known source, thickened bowel wall, and thickened mesentery were non-specific ones. Specific and non-specific findings were demonstrated in six (22%) and 23 (85%) of 27 CT scans performed within four hours following trauma, and 19 (73%) and 26 (100%) of 26 CT scans performed after four hours, respectively. CT is useful for the diagnosis of blunt intestinal injuries, but early diagnosis is difficult because of the lack of specific signs.