High-risk chief complaints III: abdomen and extremities

Abstract

Abdominal and extremity complaints are a frequent reason for presentation to the emergency department. Although these are common complaints, several abdominal and extremity disease entities may be missed or may be subject to delayed diagnosis. This article provides an overview of the diagnosis and management of several high-risk abdominal and extremity complaints, including appendicitis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, mesenteric ischemia, bowel obstruction, retained foreign body, hand and finger lacerations, fractures, and compartment syndrome. Each section focuses primarily on the pitfalls in diagnosis by highlighting the limitations of history, physical examination findings, and diagnostic testing and provides specific risk management strategies.