Mohammed N Albaraesi
Libyan International Medical University, Libya
Title: Patterns of abdominal injuries resulting from shrapnel of the missiles, cases admitted to Benghazi Medical Center
Biography
Biography: Mohammed N Albaraesi
Abstract
Background: Abdominal trauma considered one of the most common traumas seen in emergency department worldwide. Currently, in our city the majorities of abdominal injuries are related to shrapnel of the missiles.
Objective: To study and evaluate the clinical manifestation, diagnostic approaches and management of different organ injuries as well as the associated morbidity and mortality caused by shrapnel of the missiles and to improve our approach and management in this type of injury.
Materials & Method: A retrospective study of the medical records of 100 patients presenting to the emergency department with history of abdominal trauma in Benghazi Medical Center from 01-01-2016 to 31-12-2016. The clinical manifestations, diagnostic modalities, management, complications and death rate were evaluated.
Results: Patients in 5-40 years were more prone to this type of trauma. Males were predominantly involved. Abdominal pain was the most common presentation and abdominal tenderness was the most common sign. Mean duration of hospital stay for operated cases were 20 days and for non-operated cases were 7 days. Abdominal ultrasound was 81% sensitive and 100% specific in diagnosing solid organ injury. Operative management was done in 85% of cases. Mortality was 7%.
Conclusion: Penetrating abdominal injuries which results from shrapnel of the missiles are common injury in Benghazi. Repeated clinical examinations and use of appropriate diagnostic modalities holds the key in management. Hollow viscous injuries were the most common injury which mandates urgent operative management. Non-operative management and close observation for solid organ injuries in a hemodynamically stable patient is a better option.