Evaluation of Blunt Abdominal Trauma Using CT: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Background: Blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) is a common and potentially life-threatening injury. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for timely intervention and improving patient outcomes. This study evaluates the role of computed tomography (CT) in the diagnosis and management of blunt abdominal trauma, with a focus on its ability to detect solid organ injuries, vascular injuries, and retroperitoneal injuries.
Methods: A total of 100 patients with blunt abdominal trauma who were referred for CT imaging over 1 year in the Department of Radiology were included in this study. The imaging findings were correlated with clinical outcomes and surgical findings. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CT for detecting different types of abdominal injuries were calculated.
Results: The study found that CT had high sensitivity and specificity in detecting injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and major blood vessels. CT imaging was particularly effective in identifying vascular injuries and retroperitoneal injuries, which were missed by other diagnostic methods. CT angiography proved invaluable in detecting mesenteric and vascular injuries and guiding surgical management.
Conclusion: CT is a highly effective imaging modality for evaluating blunt abdominal trauma. It offers high diagnostic accuracy, reduces the need for invasive procedures, and assists in timely management decisions, making it a crucial tool in trauma care. However, the risks associated with radiation exposure and contrast-induced nephropathy should be considered.