310 Management of Anterior Penetrating Abdominal Injuries and the Role of Computerised Tomography

Abstract

Introduction Optimal management of anterior penetrating abdominal injuries (A-PAI) is an area of ongoing debate. Randomised controlled trials are missing and guidelines are based on expert opinion. The accuracy of computerised tomography (CT) is challenged, and hence diagnostic laparoscopies are still widely used. Method We retrospectively reviewed the TARN database identifying patients presenting with A-PAI to a London Major Trauma Centre between 01/19/2015-31/03/2018 and reviewed their clinical notes. Results 143 patients were identified (79% male, mean age = 30). Non-operative management (NOM) took place without complication in 15% (n = 12) of cases, despite 38% (n = 8) showing a potential peritoneal breach on CT, and 19% (n = 4) a definitive intra-abdominal injury. Of the 37% (n = 53) of patients undergoing laparoscopy, half revealed no intra-abdominal injury. When comparing CT consultant reports to intra-operative findings, the accuracy of CT in identifying peritoneal breach was calculated to be 93% and sensitivity at 95%. Negative predictive value was 62%. Conclusions We concluded that a significant number of patients have unnecessary laparoscopies, which are not without risk. CT is an excellent resource, but negative predictive value is poor. NOM with serial abdominal examination remains a valid clinical option in the stable non-peritonitic patient and in the absence of definitive viscous perforation on CT.