Active extraperitoneal hematoma in the anterior abdominal wall after blunt injury

Abstract

A 65-year-old male patient had extraperitoneal hematoma of the anterior abdominal wall after blunt trauma. The patient was treated with conservative management because of stable hemodynamics without deterioration of physical examination and laboratory tests; however, computed tomography revealed active bleeding. In abdominal wall hematoma, physical examination, hemodynamic monitoring, and laboratory tests may be the most important factor in determining a therapeutic plan. Repetitive imaging can be obtained and invasive treatment should be considered if these indices suggest hematoma exacerbation. Patients with abdominal trauma who have altered coagulation status should be carefully monitored for abdominal wall hematoma. Detecting abdominal wall hematoma is important because it may be the clue for potential intra-abdominal organ injury or delayed complication.