Blunt trauma pancreas

Abstract

The incidence of pancreatic injuries after blunt abdominal trauma is very low, with rates of less than 1% quoted for all trauma admissions. Major injuries of the pancreas are uncommon, but may result in considerable morbidity and mortality. Due to retroperitoneal location of the organ, symptoms and signs of pancreatic trauma are subtle making diagnosis more difficult and easily missed. Assessment of the injury includes determining the degree of parenchymal involvement , location of injury within the gland and presence of pancreatic ductal involvement. When a pancreatic injury is identified, the method of management is determined by the condition of the patient, the severity of injury and anatomic location. Successful treatment of complex injuries of the pancreas depends largely on initial correct assessment and appropriate treatment. The management of the severe pancreatic injuries remains one of the most difficult challenges in abdominal trauma management.