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[Ischemic stenosis of the small intestine after blunt abdominal trauma]
1Herning Centralsygehus, parenkymkirurgisk afdeling A.
Insights
A five-year-old girl developed small bowel obstruction after blunt abdominal trauma, diagnosed as posttraumatic ischemic stenosis. Surgical resection led to a full recovery, highlighting the "seat belt syndrome" in pediatric trauma.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Blunt abdominal trauma can lead to delayed gastrointestinal complications.
- The "seat belt syndrome" describes injuries resulting from lap belt use during vehicle accidents.
Observation:
- A 5-year-old girl presented with signs of small bowel obstruction two weeks post-trauma.
- Laparotomy revealed two distinct lesions in the distal jejunum.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination confirmed ischemic stenosis with ulceration and fibrosis.
- Resection of the affected jejunal segment resulted in complete recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for serious gastrointestinal injury from seemingly minor blunt abdominal trauma.
- Early recognition and surgical intervention are crucial for managing posttraumatic ischemic stenosis in children.
Abstract:
A case of posttraumatic ischaemic stenosis is presented. The patient, a five year-old girl, was admitted to hospital with physical and radiological signs of small bowel obstruction about two weeks after sustaining blunt abdominal trauma in a car accident. At laparotomy two lesions of the distal jejunum were found. Proximal to this the small intestine was dilated. A segment of 25 cms. of small bowel including the two lesions was resected. Microscopic examination showed two ulcers with adjacent fibrosis consistent with ischaemic stenosis. The patient recovered completely after the operation. The entity of "seat belt syndrome" is presented.