EP-473 Laparoscopy versus Laparotomy for Abdominal Trauma: a Case of Iatrogenic Haemoperitoneum in a Haemodynamically Unstable patient

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Laparoscopy is the gold-standard approach to elective abdominal surgery. Nevertheless, its application to abdominal trauma, including the treatment of haemoperitoneum, has been historically challenged by links to missed injuries. The European Association for Endoscopic Surgery does not clearly recommend therapeutic laparoscopy in trauma, despite the recognised potential benefits, in light of the scarcity and poor standardisation of available evidence. Case description A 68-year old male, presented with worsening shortness of breath and ascites. He was in type-2 respiratory and renal failure on a background of decompensated heart failure. He was admitted to the ITU for circulatory and ventilatory support and underwent ascitic drainage, removed on day 2. On day 3, the patient became peritonitic, exhibited a haemoglobin drop and went into class 2 haemorrhagic shock. A CT-abdomen showed moderate haemorrhagic ascites. An emergency laparoscopy was undertaken, which revealed active bleeding from the left lower abdominal wall. Haemostasis was achieved with ligation and electrocautery of the deep inferior epigastric perforators. Post-operatively, the patient showed a sustained clinical improvement. On day 4 he was stepped down to the ward and on day 10 discharged without further complications. Discussion Therapeutic laparoscopy is efficacious and safe in selected cases of intra-abdominal trauma, as revealed by emerging literature. The haemodynamic stability of the patient is not always a pre-requisite, and the patient's preoperative comorbidities can be key in deciding in favour of laparoscopy. We underline the following important conditions for success: an experienced surgeon, a systematic approach, suitable equipment and short time to surgery.