Bowel Wall Hematoma Research Articles

Case Report: Delayed Presentation of Bowel Obstruction Caused by Blunt Abdominal Trauma.

IntroductionBowel obstruction is a rare but well reported complication of blunt abdominal trauma (BAT). Obstruction is most often seen acutely caused by bowel wall hematomas and chronically as a result of post-traumatic strictures. Here, we present a novel case of BAT causing a subacute obstructing bowel wall hematoma.Case ReportA healthy, 32-year-old male presented to our emergency department with three days of nausea and vomiting. Chart review revealed he had been seen two weeks prior after a high-speed motor vehicle collision. During that initial visit, the patient had a benign abdominal exam and was discharged without imaging. On this return visit, the patient was found to have a large, obstructing colonic hematoma.ConclusionBecause emergency physicians care for patients in both the acute and subacute phases of trauma, clinicians should recognize the more subtle sequelae of BAT.

Radiographic predictors of therapeutic operative intervention after blunt abdominal trauma: the RAPTOR score.

Bowel and mesenteric injuries are rare in patients following blunt abdominal trauma. Computed tomography (CT) imaging has become a mainstay in the work-up of the stable trauma patient. The purpose of this study was to identify radiographic predictors of therapeutic operative intervention for mesenteric and/or bowel injuries in patients after blunt abdominal trauma. All patients with a discharge diagnosis of bowel and/or mesenteric injury after blunt trauma were identified over a 5-year period. Admission CT scans were reviewed to identify potential predictors of bowel and/or mesenteric injury. Patients were then stratified by operative intervention [therapeutic laparotomy (TL) vs. non-therapeutic laparotomy (NTL)] and compared. All potential predictors included in the initial regression model were assigned one point and a score based on the number of predictors was calculated: the radiographic predictors of therapeutic operative intervention (RAPTOR) score. 151 patients were identified. 114 (76%) patients underwent operative intervention. Of these, 75 patients (66%) underwent TL. Multifocal hematoma, acute arterial extravasation, bowel wall hematoma, bowel devascularization, fecalization, pneumoperitoneum and fat pad injury, identified as potential predictors on univariable analysis, were included in the initial regression model and comprised the RAPTOR score. The optimal RAPTOR score was identified as ≥ 3, with a sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of 67%, 85% and 86%, respectively. Acute arterial extravasation (OR 3.8; 95% CI 1.2-4.3), bowel devascularization (OR 14.5; 95% CI 11.8-18.4) and fat pad injury (OR 4.5 95% CI 1.6-6.2) were identified as independent predictors of TL (AUC 0.91). CT imaging remains vital in assessing for potential bowel and/or mesenteric injuries following blunt abdominal trauma. The RAPTOR score provides a simplified approach to predict the need for early therapeutic operative intervention.

Blunt Injury of the Bowel and Mesentery

Although not common, blunt bowel and mesenteric trauma requires prompt identification and intervention to avoid significant morbidity and mortality. Developments in MDCT technology especially with 64 and higher slice MDCT have improved image quality for better detection and depiction of bowel and mesenteric injury. Recent reports indicate that administration of oral contrast does not increase diagnostic accuracy, allowing for more rapid door to scan time. Dual-source CT (DS-CT) ability to generate iodine maps and virtual noncontrast images has the potential to increase conspicuity of bowel perfusion abnormalities, better distinguish hypo-perfused from nonperfused bowel, and reveal bowel wall hematoma obscured by mural enhancement. This article will review the current state-of-the-art approach in using direct and indirect MDCT signs of bowel injury in an attempt to differentiate surgical from nonsurgical lesions, and discuss imaging protocols used at our institution for follow-up imaging in nonsurgical lesions. We will also demonstrate the potential utility of DS-CT in blunt bowel injury.

In the Modern Era of CT, Do Blunt Trauma Patients with Markers for Blunt Bowel or Mesenteric Injury Still Require Exploratory Laparotomy?

After blunt trauma, certain CT markers, such as free intraperitoneal air, strongly suggest bowel perforation, whereas other markers, including free intraperitoneal fluid without solid organ injury, may be merely suspicious for acute injury. The present study aims to delineate the safety of nonoperative management for markers of blunt bowel or mesenteric injury (BBMI) that are suspicious for significant bowel injury after blunt trauma. This was a retrospective review of adult blunt trauma patients with abdominopelvic CT scans on admission to a Level I trauma center between 2012 and 2014. Patients with CT evidence of acute BBMI without solid organ injury were included. The CT markers for BBMI included free intraperitoneal fluid, bowel hematoma, bowel wall thickening, mesenteric edema, hematoma and stranding. Two thousand blunt trauma cases were reviewed, and 94 patients (4.7%) met inclusion criteria. The average Injury Severity Score was 13.6 ± 10.1 and the median hospital stay was four days. The most common finding was free fluid (74 patients, 78.7%). The majority of patients (92, 97.9%) remained asymptomatic or clinically improved without abdominal surgery. After a change in abdominal examination, two patients (2.1%) underwent laparotomy with bowel perforation found in only one patient. Thus, 93 patients did not have a surgically significant injury, indicating that these markers demonstrate 1.1 per cent positive predictive value for bowel perforation. The presence of these markers after blunt trauma does not mandate laparotomy, though it should prompt thorough and continued vigilance toward the abdomen.

Complicated Gastric Ulcer and Jejunal Hematoma with Concomitant Warfarin Use: Analytical and Biomedical Case Study Report

Intramural hematoma is commonly known as a hematoma that occurs in the wall of a structure, such as the bowel or bladder, usually resulting from trauma or, in rare situations, excessive anticoagulation. In particular, intramural gastrointestinal hematoma is part of a spectrum of gastrointestinal injuries. Vomiting and straining, endoscopic procedures, and bleeding disorders are essentially among the most common predisposing factors. However, it can also be an unusual complication of anticoagulation and/or thrombolysis therapy. The most common symptoms are retrosternal chest pain, dysphagia, and hematemesis. Intramural bowel wall hematoma is an often forgotten, rare clinical entity that may pose considerable diagnostic dilemma. Therefore, it is conspicuously imperative to diagnose this condition promptly and correctly in order to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention. In this rare presented case report, a 51-year-old woman having mitral valve prothesis and mild heart failure under warfarin wasadmitted to the renowned Sahel General Hospital in Beirut in November of 2006 with massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding that was subsequently controlled by endoscopic sclerotherapy and medical management. About 12 h later, the aforementioned patientsuffered a severe abdominal pain accompanied by a steep dropping in the hematocrit level. Moreover, an abdominal computed tomography scan showed thick jejunal hematoma of approximately 70 cm in length that was handled surgically. The patient had been incessantly observed for about 7 days,andsubsequently discharged with therapeutic international normalized ratio(INR).

Multi Detector Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Bowel Injury

Bowel Injuries are uncommonly associated with traumatic abdominal injuries. However, they are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and require operative intervention unlike solid organ injuries. Hence, early diagnosis is of paramount importance. Computed tomographic (CT) scan is a well-established and highly accurate imaging modality for the detection of solid organ injury after blunt abdominal trauma. However, its role in diagnosing hollow viscus injury remains controversial. The aim of our study was to analyze the accuracy of multidetector CT (MDCT) in the diagnosis of bowel injury. Imaging features of surgically proven cases of bowel injury were identified over 8-year period (i.e., from January 2003 to December 2010) and were retrospectively analyzed. There were 32 patients with age range of 3-90years. There was only one female. Sensitivity of various CT signs specific to bowel injury (i.e., extravasation of contrast and discontinuity of bowel wall) was 15.62, and 28.12%, respectively. While that of signs suggestive of bowel injury were pneumoperitoneum, 62.5%; gas in the vicinity, 40.62%; bowel wall hematoma, 21.87%; bowel wall thickening, 75%; ascites, 78.12%; mesenteric hematoma, 46.87%; and mesenteric stranding, 40.62%. Based on the major and minor signs, a diagnosis of bowel injury could be made in all patients except one. The minor signs showed a higher sensitivity than the major signs. Hence, we recommend that multidetector CT should be used as the modality of choice in case of patients with suspected bowel injury. We also suggest that the minor signs should be given as much importance as the major signs.

Submucosal hematoma presenting as small bowel obturator obstruction in a patient on low-molecular-weight heparin

Recent studies have shown the efficacy of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the treatment of venous thromboembolic disease in children. Compared to unfractionated heparin and coumadin, LMWH has more predictable pharmacokinetics and a reported lower incidence of osteoporosis and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in children. The overall incidence of severe hemorrhage on LMWH in children is low. To date, there is a single report of a small bowel obstruction in a child secondary to a hematoma while on LMWH. We report the second case of a child, on enoxaparin (Lovenox) therapy, who underwent bowel resection secondary to a completely obstructing small bowel wall hematoma.

Spontaneous Large Intramural Hematoma in Roux Limb of Gastric Bypass

Purpose: Abdominal pain with a significant hematocrit drop may indicate severe GI bleeding. However, if there is no hematemesis, melena or hematochezia, bleeding from other sources must be considered. We describe a previously unreported case of spontaneous intramural bleeding within the Roux limb in a patient with a history of gastric bypass surgery. Methods: A 34 year old woman, 13 days post bone marrow transplant for acute myeloid leukemia, with a history of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery 2 years prior, developed moderate abdominal pain with Hct 28%, WBC 0.03 K/μL and platelets 6 K/μL. Esomeprazole and sucralfate were initiated, which did not relieve the pain. Over the next 3 days, the Hct dropped from 28% to 15%. The patient had more abdominal pain, tachycardia and hypotension. She had nausea, but no vomiting or hematemesis. She had regular bowel movements, no melena or hematochezia. After resuscitation with fluid, blood and platelet transfusions, the patient underwent an abdominal CT scan. Results: On CT scan, there was an extensive intramural hematoma confined within the Roux limb of the gastric bypass with a wall thickness measuring up to 1.7 cm. The abnormality extended from the gastrojejunostomy to within a few centimeters of the jejunojejunostomy. The patient was given blood and platelet transfusions to maintain the Hct at 30% and platelet at 50 K/μL. The bleeding gradually stopped over a week. The patient's symptoms of abdominal pain and nausea resolved. A repeat CT scan one month later demonstrated complete resolution of the intramural hematoma from the Roux limb. Conclusion: Spontaneous intramural small bowel wall hematoma has been reported in patients with excessive anticoagulation or with other risk factors for bleeding. The jejunum is the most common site of the hematoma, followed by the ileum and duodenum. Abdominal CT scan is the diagnostic modality of choice to detect an intramural hematoma. CT scan findings include circumferential or asymmetric wall thickening, intramural hyperdensity, luminal narrowing, and intestinal obstruction. Accurate diagnosis is crucial because most patients can be treated nonoperatively with a good outcome. Resolution of the hematoma can be seen as early as 1 week after onset. In our case, the risk factor for bleeding was the extremely low platelet count. The patient responded well to conservative management. This is the first reported case of spontaneous intramural bleeding in the entire Roux limb of a gastric bypass.

Adult intussusception due to cocaine-induced bowel wall hematoma: a case study

The authors present a patient in whom colocolic intussusception occurred as a result of bowel wall ischemia and hematoma. Imaging features and pathogenesis of bowel ischemia and intussusception will be briefly discussed, as well as its relationship to cocaine abuse. The importance of recognizing complications of cocaine abuse in today's emergency department patient population will be emphasized.

The role of computed tomography in diagnosis of blunt intestinal and mesenteric trauma (BIMT)

Blunt intestinal mesenteric trauma (BIMT) is a rare injury with a high morbidity and mortality. It is a diagnostic dilemma for Trauma Surgeons and Emergency Physicians. This study was undertaken to assess the role of computed tomography (CT) in BIMT. Data were analyzed from 1995 to 2002. Thirty-six cases of BIMT were identified: 16 isolated and 20 non-isolated injuries. Initial CT scan was abnormal in 74% (17 out of 23), and 83% on retrospect (2 additional cases). CT scans were abnormal (initial and repeat) in 96% (22 out of 23). The most common abnormalities were free fluid (78%), mesenteric stranding or edema (39%), bowel wall hematoma, or edema (30%). Free air was seen in 31% and oral contrast extravasation in 15% of cases of bowel perforation. CT scan findings in BIMT can be subtle and non-specific. Suspicion of BIMT warrants close observation and probably further diagnostic testing.

Blunt trauma to the gastrointestinal tract and mesentery: is there a role for helical CT in the decision-making process?

The CT diagnosis of bowel and mesenteric injuries is difficult and warrants optimal technique and skilled interpretation. We retrospectively reviewed 36 consecutive patients with blunt traumatic injuries to the bowel and mesentery at our regional level I trauma center during the past 3 years. Physical examination, laboratory, Computed tomographic (CT), and intraoperative findings were compared. Surgically proven bowel injuries (13 cases) occurred in the duodenum (three cases), ileum (two cases), jejunum (two cases), colon (three cases), and stomach (three cases). CT findings considered specific of bowel rupture were observed in 5/13 patients including: extraluminal oral contrast or luminal content extravasation (four cases) and discontinuity of hollow viscus wall (one case). In the remaining 8/13 CT findings considered suggestive of bowel injury consisted of: pneumoperitoneum (six), gas bubbles close to the injured hollow viscus (three), thickened (>4–5 mm) bowel wall (five), bowel wall hematoma (three), intraperitoneal fluid of unknown source (three). Mesenteric injury (23 cases) were surgically observed at the level of the mesenteric vessels (17 cases), legament of Treitz (two cases), gastro-duodenal artery (one case), transverse (one case) and sigmoid mesocolon (one case). CT finding considered specific of mesenteric laceration was active extravasation of contrast material from the mesenteric vessels (10 cases). CT findings suggestive of mesenteric injury (13 cases) consisted of: mesenteric hematoma (five) and/or high attenuation fluid collections, within the mesenteric root (eight) and folds (four). Helical CT is sensitive in the identification of bowel and mesenteric injury after blunt trauma providing a wide spectrum of findings. However, CT cannot be used as the sole indicator in cases with isolated thichened bowel wall, mesenteric hematoma, bowel hematoma, pneumoperitoneum or gas bubbles. Persistent, active extravasation of intravenous constrast medium from the mesenteric vessels, in isolation or associated with further injuries, requires immediate exploration and repair; disruption of bowel wall and extravasation of oral contrast are definite signs of bowel rupture. Close clinical observation, monitoring, and surgical expertise are mandatory for appropriate management.

Small bowel obstruction caused by bowel wall hematoma after PEG

Small bowel obstruction caused by bowel wall hematoma after PEG

Intussusception following a baby walker injury

Serious abdominal injury as a result of a fall in a baby walker has not been previously reported. We present the case of a 13-month-old boy who developed intussusception following a fall down five stairs in a baby walker. Attempted hydrostatic reduction was unsuccessful. At operation, a bowel wall hematoma, serving as a lead point, was identified. This case adds another type of injury to the list of those previously associated with baby walker use.

Small bowel hematoma in a hemophiliac as a cause of pseudoappendicitis: Diagnosis by ct imaging

Acute abdominal pain in a hemophiliac should be approached as hemorrhage until proven otherwise. With factor replacement available, a conservative approach can be taken as opposed to immediate exploratory surgery. Diagnostic imaging can define areas of hemorrhage. We report a case of "pseudoappendicitis" in a hemophiliac with terminal ileum circumferential bowel wall hematoma diagnosed by CT with the initial diagnostic scan. Factor replacement resulted in resolution of the signs and symptoms of the pseudoappendicitis and follow-up CT scan revealed resolution of the hematoma. A review of the literature reveals few CT documented circumferential bowel wall hematomas with limited clinical histories and no cases with follow-up scans after conservative management.

Computed tomography in the diagnosis of blunt intestinal and mesenteric injuries.

Twenty-four patients with signs on computed tomography (CT) of mesenteric or intestinal injury were treated over a 5-year period (1980-1984). All patients were the victims of blunt abdominal trauma. Nine patients with CT evidence of mesenteric or bowel hematomas were observed without adverse outcome. Fifteen were operatively explored, with 14 having injuries similar to the findings on the preoperative CT scans. In the group that had surgery, either thickened bowel or free intraperitoneal fluid (blood or less dense fluid) or both were present in all but one patient. Extraluminal air (three cases) or Gastrografin (Squibb) (one case) were absolute indications for surgery, as were bowel wall or mesenteric hematomas accompanied by substantial amounts of intraperitoneal fluid. The patient's history, physical examination, and initial laboratory values are important in proper selection of patients for CT evaluation. We feel that CT appears to offer certain definite advantages over peritoneal lavage in evaluation of bowel and mesenteric injuries and can reliably help to distinguish the injuries that require surgical repair from those that can be safely monitored and observed.