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Posttraumatic acute cholecystitis on the rehabilitation service
1Washoe Medical Center, Reno, NV.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Posttraumatic acute cholecystitis can occur in trauma patients due to factors like fasting and sepsis. Immediate surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is recommended over conservative management to reduce mortality.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Gastrointestinal complications
Background:
- Posttraumatic acute cholecystitis is a severe complication in multitrauma patients.
- Predisposing factors include fasting, hypotension, transfusions, sepsis, and narcotics.
Observation:
- Two cases are presented where symptoms appeared 26 and 108 days posttrauma during rehabilitation.
- Common signs include right upper-quadrant pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Findings:
- Acute cholecystitis can manifest significantly later in the post-trauma recovery period.
- Early surgical intervention is crucial for favorable outcomes.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of recognizing delayed presentations of cholecystitis in trauma survivors.
- Emphasizes immediate cholecystectomy as the optimal treatment strategy to prevent mortality.