Emergency medical personnel deliver a 19-year-old male to the emergency department following a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The patient is confused and visibly pale. Initial vital signs include a blood pressure of 72/42 mm Hg, a heart rate of 145/min, and respirations of 26/min. Examination shows a single bullet entry hole in the periumbilical region with no corresponding exit wound. The abdominal wall is rigid, and generalized guarding is present. Bilateral breath sounds are clear. Large-bore intravenous access is obtained, and a massive transfusion protocol is initiated. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?
- Immediate exploratory laparotomyCevap
- BComputed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis
- CFocused assessment with sonography for trauma
- DDiagnostic peritoneal lavage
- ELocal wound exploration
Cevap
Immediate exploratory laparotomy
The correct answer is immediate exploratory laparotomy. This patient has sustained a penetrating abdominal injury (gunshot wound) and presents with profound hemodynamic instability (hypotension, marked tachycardia) as well as clear clinical signs of peritonitis (rigid abdomen, generalized guarding). According to Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocols, any patient with a penetrating abdominal injury who is hemodynamically unstable or demonstrates signs of peritonitis requires immediate surgical exploration. The goal is rapid hemostasis and control of gastrointestinal spillage. Diagnostic testing should not delay transfer to the operating room in this critical scenario.
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Anahtar Kavram
Management of hemodynamically unstable penetrating abdominal trauma