Diagnostic peritoneal lavage in blunt abdominal trauma

J Trauma. 1975 Oct;15(10):854-9. doi: 10.1097/00005373-197510000-00003.

Abstract

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage is accurate and safe. It leads to fewer unnecessary laparotomies than if clinical examination alone is used and nearly eliminates deaths from undiagnosed abdominal injuries. Persons with clinical abdominal findings, shock, altered sensorium, and severe chest injuries after blunt trauma should undergo the procedure.

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Ascitic Fluid* / analysis
  • Humans
  • Therapeutic Irrigation* / adverse effects
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / diagnosis*