A Descriptive Study on the Usage of Exploratory Laparotomy for Trauma Patients

OBJECTIVE: Laparotomy is commonly indicated in patients presenting blunt or penetrating trauma. This cross-sectional study is designed to evaluate the frequency and the causes of laparotomy following abdominal trauma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 71 patients who underwent laparotomy as a result of abdominal trauma in Shohada Ashayer Hospital, Khorramabad were evaluated and a questionnaire was completed for each patient. All the data were analyzed statistically using SPSS. RESULTS: Of 71 patients, 61 underwent positive laparotomy whereas, negative laparotomy was performed in 10 patients. The results from this study showed that the most common organ of the injury was spleen (19.7%), followed by other solid organs. The small intestine (16.4%) was found more prone to injuries in penetrating trauma. Incidence of blunt trauma injury due to road accidents was the greatest 50.82% and 20% of penetrating traumas were the result of a firearm. CONCLUSION: Abdominal trauma injury is common in our study population where spleen, small intestine and other solid organs are chiefly involved. Indications of laparotomy should be fully examined in order to avoid negative laparotomies and associated complications.