Significance of hematoma size for evaluating the grade of blunt renal trauma

Abstract

Background: The hematoma size relative to the body size was measured on computed tomography films using a personal computer system in order to define whether that parameter is useful for decision-making in the management of blunt renal trauma.

Methods: From 1982 to 1997, 33 patients with intermediate or severe grade blunt renal trauma were retrospectively divided into three groups: group 1, managed conservatively without transcatheter embolization; group 2, managed by bedrest after selective transcatheter embolization; and group 3, managed operatively. In these three groups, the hematoma area (H) and the ratio of hematoma area to body area on CT (H/B) were measured and the chronological changes of the H/B in groups 1 and 2 were studied.

Results: The H and H/B of group 3 were significantly larger than those of group 1. The H/B was more clearly distinguished for each group compared with the H alone. Well-preserved kidney integrity, despite the presence of a large hematoma in group 2, allowed the conservative treatment following transcatheter embolization of the bleeding site. The H/B of all group 1 patients gradually decreased and on the 40th or 50th day after injury they reached a level equivalent to the ratio of contra-lateral normal kidney area to body area.

Conclusion: The ratio of hematoma area to body area on CT was very useful in evaluating the grade of blunt renal trauma. In conservative treatment for blunt renal trauma changes of the hematoma size is a useful indicator for management.