According to surgery, abdominal injury refers to any type of trauma or damage to the abdominal cavity and its contents, including:
- Injury to the abdominal wall, such as lacerations, contusions, or penetrating wounds
- Injury to intra-abdominal organs, such as the liver, spleen, stomach, intestines, pancreas, or kidneys
- Damage to blood vessels or nerves within the abdomen
- Injury to the diaphragm, which separates the abdominal cavity from the chest cavity
Abdominal injuries can be caused by various mechanisms, including:
- Blunt trauma, such as from a car accident, fall, or sports injury
- Penetrating trauma, such as from a gunshot wound or stabbing
- Iatrogenic trauma, such as from surgery or other medical procedures
Abdominal injuries can range in severity from minor to life-threatening. Symptoms may vary depending on the location and extent of the injury and may include:
- Abdominal pain and tenderness
- Bruising or discoloration of the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal distension or bloating
- Fever and chills
- Shock, characterized by low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and pale skin
Prompt medical attention is crucial for abdominal injuries, as they can lead to serious complications such as internal bleeding, infection, organ damage, or death. Treatment may involve surgery to repair damaged tissues, control bleeding, or drain abscesses. In some cases, non-surgical management with pain relievers, antibiotics, and rest may be sufficient.