Evaluation and general surgical considerations in the trauma patient with suspected urologic injury

One of the hallmarks of modern trauma care is the teamwork concept. To achieve optimum outcome, severely injured patients are identified as early as possible and brought to hospitals with a broad range of capabilities. Although injury to the genitourinary system is not usually an immediate threat to life, a high morbidity rate may result if these injuries are not recognized early. Urologists provide an important strength of the complete trauma center. A cooperative relationship between the trauma surgeon and the urologist is essential for timely, orderly diagnosis and to help avoid missed injuries.