Splenic trauma: value of follow-up CT

To determine the value of follow-up computed tomography (CT) after expectant treatment in patients with clinically stable blunt splenic trauma.

Medical records and CT studies for 42 patients were reviewed, and injuries were graded on a scale of 1-6. Patients were divided into three groups: stable patients with no follow-up CT (group 1, n = 14), stable patients with follow-up CT (group 2, n = 22), and symptomatic patients with follow-up (group 3, n = 6). Serial hemoglobin values and clinical findings at follow-up CT were reviewed.

All patients in groups 1 and 2 remained clinically stable with good outcomes. In group 3, follow-up CT scans demonstrated worsening condition in four patients (67%), and three of the four had poor outcomes.

Follow-up CT may be unnecessary in patients with clinically stable splenic trauma.