Morel-Lavallée Lesion: Uncommon Injury often Missed

Morel-Lavalleé lesion is an uncommon closed degloving injury usually affecting the lower extremity. Although these lesions have been documented in literature, yet there is no standard treatment algorithm for the same. A case of Morel-Lavallée lesion following blunt injury to the thigh is therefore presented to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing such lesions. The aim of presenting the case is to create awareness of clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of Morel-Lavallée lesions, especially in the setting of polytrauma patients.

A case of Morel-Lavallée lesion in a 32-year-old male with history of a blunt injury to the right thigh caused by a partial run over accident is presented. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was done to confirm the diagnosis. A limited open approach for evacuating the fluid in the lesion was performed followed by irrigation of the cavity with a combination of 3% hypertonic saline and hydrogen peroxide in order to induce fibrosis to obliterate the dead space. This was followed by continuous negative suction accompanied with a pressure bandage.

A high index of suspicion is necessary especially in cases of severe blunt injuries to the extremities. MRI is essential for early diagnosis of Morel-Lavallée lesions. A limited open approach is a safe and effective option for treatment. The use of 3% hypertonic saline along with hydrogen peroxide irrigation of the cavity to induce sclerosis is a novel method for treating the condition.