Review of diagnostic methods in abdominal trauma

The diagnostic methods used in examining 1,214 patients who underwent laparotomy for abdominal injury are evaluated. Diagnosis was based on clinical examination and the results of tests. Peritoneal lavage was useful for the early detection of bleeding, especially in unconscious patients, paraplegics and intoxicated patients. Radiological examination of the abdomen was unreliable in patients with blunt injury. Routine radiography of the pelvis was rewarding. Intravenous pyelography is now used only in patients with frank haematuria. Transurethral cystography was reliable when 350-400 ml contrast fluid was used. A radiograph of the chest should seldom be omitted in patients with blunt injury.