Trauma to the liver during a ten-year period. With special reference to morbidity and mortality after blunt trauma and stab wounds

Abstract

The records of 58 patients with hepatic injuries treated between 1969 and 1978 were analyzed in retrospect. The hepatic injury was caused by blunt trauma in 30 cases (52%), stab wounds in 26 cases (45%) and gun shot wounds (GSW) in 2 cases (3%). In 45 patients (78%) the injury could be managed by simple methods such as laparotomy alone or suture and/or drainage. Hepatic lobectomy was performed in 5 patients (9%). When compared with stab wounds, hepatic injuries after blunt trauma were associated with higher frequency of shock, more blood transfusions, more associated injuries, more severe liver injuries and longer hospital stay. Overall mortality rate was 19%. True hepatic injury mortality rate was 5%. After blunt trauma mortality rate was 30% and after stab wounds 4%. The mortality rate was higher in patients with multiple associated injuries and after more severe hepatic injuries.