Renal laceration in a high school football player

Renal laceration, though uncommon, is a danger for any active person, particularly in collision or contact sports. A traumatic blow to the abdomen or flank can cause kidney damage, and, if left untreated, renal injury may lead to hypertension. Hematuria is often the most obvious sign that alerts clinicians to a renal laceration. The extent of the damage can be evaluated with CT. Conservative treatment of monitoring vital signs is recommended for managing lesser injuries, but intraperitoneal trauma or injury to the renal pedicle may require surgical intervention.