Domestic violence and assault leading to isolated grade III pancreatic injury managed conservatively; A rare case report

Abstract

IntroductionIsolated complete pancreatic transection following blunt trauma abdomen is associated with very high mortality. Conservative management in such a scenario is a rare experience. Majority of the patients with American Association for Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grade III or IV pancreatic injury are treated with surgical options and have poor outcomes. As per the available literature we are reporting a rare case of isolated AAST grade III pancreatic injury managed conservatively in adult. Case presentationA 37-year-old female presented with complaints of severe epigastric pain with the alleged history of domestic violence. CECT of the patient suggested isolated pancreatic injury with complete transection of pancreas. Considering the clinical and hemodynamic status of the patient a trial of conservative management was started. Serial assessment of biochemical and clinical parameters depicted improvement in the clinical status of the patient. She was doing well at 6 months of follow up. DiscussionOperative procedures in patients with high grade pancreatic injury are associated with high risk of mortality and morbidity. Emergency surgeries can be avoided in patient with stable clinical and haemodynamic status. In selected cases decision on the basis of radiology may lead to unnecessary surgeries, whereas conservative approach may have better outcomes. ConclusionTailored approach in cases of high-grade pancreatic injury will augment the decision taking between operative and non-operative management. Clinical and haemodynamic status should play a pivotal role and radiology should be used as an adjunct for deciding the management.