[Value of computerized tomography in diagnosis of small intestine injuries after blunt abdominal trauma]

Intestinal injury is increasing in frequency among persons sustaining blunt abdominal trauma, and the consequences of delayed recognition of intestinal injuries are serious. This critical retrospective analysis evaluates the role for CT in the diagnosis of blunt abdominal trauma, including hollow visceral injury. CT scan, when used in conjunction with a history emphasizing the mechanism of injury and a careful physical examination, is highly accurate in detecting small bowel injuries. CT is less helpful in distinguishing between different types of small bowel injury. Intestinal wall thickening with low-density fluid in the abdominal cavity strongly suggests rupture. Until further experience is gained with CT, free intraperitoneal fluid in the absence of solid organ injury should be regarded as an indication for exploratory laparotomy.