Delayed presentation of traumatic intraperitoneal bladder rupture

Abstract

A child with urine ascites as a delayed manifestation of post-traumatic intraperitoneal bladder rupture is presented. The diagnosis was suggested by abdominal CT scan and confirmed with a cystogram. While uncommon, late presentation of intraperitoneal bladder rupture following trauma may occur from masking of a primary laceration or development of secondary rupture at the site of a hematoma in the bladder wall. Since CT may be a primary diagnostic study performed following abdominal trauma, the radiologist should be aware of CT findings suggesting bladder rupture and of the possibility of delayed presentation of this injury.