CT of abdominal and pelvic trauma

Abstract

CT is the diagnostic study of choice at most institutions in the evaluation of hemodynamically stable, blunt abdominal trauma. It is highly specific and sensitive in the detection and definition of the extent of most intra-abdominal and pelvic injuries. The clinical examination is the most important factor in the decision regarding whether surgery should be undertaken. However, a progressive and steady trend toward the nonoperative management of solid parenchymal injury is occurring, partly because of the ability of CT to define the extent of injury and to follow its healing over time. Clinical management, CT findings, and the utility of these findings are presented and discussed for each organ system injury within the abdomen and pelvis.