[Ultrasonography as diagnostic method in abdominal trauma and wounds]

Abdominal trauma is a public health problem. Early diagnosis of this lesion is directly related to the survival of these patients. Ultrasonography is a good method for the study of the traumatized patient. Abdominal ultrasonography was performed in 35 patients seen at the Central Military Hospital of Caracas during the years 1987-1988. Free liquid in the abdominal cavity and parenchymatous hematomas were the most frequent findings followed by retroperitoneal hematomas. Abdominal ultrasonography performed by trained and experienced personnel can be of great help in the management of patients with abdominal trauma. Correlation between ultrasonography, surgical findings and the clinical follow up was 100%. We recommended this method for the initial evaluation of these patients.