Journal of Trauma & Treatment

Spontaneous Pnemoperitoneum after Blunt Trauma Chest –Diagnostic Dilemma-Role of Diagnostic Laparoscopy – Case Report

Abstract

Samir R Nayak, Mishra Anindita, Dilip Kumar Soren and Babu Nagendra S

Introduction: Pneumoperitoneum is a striking feature of hollow viscous perforation and may need of immediate surgical intervention. Blunt trauma chest with pneumoperitoneum without evidence of hollow viscous perforation is unusual and the condition is called spotaneous pneumoperitoneum. Case Presentation: A 29 year male presented to the emergency department after a road traffic accident with hypotension and respiratory distress. Clinically there was surgical emphysema associated with diminished breath sound over left half of the chest and multiple contusions over left hypochondrium and left flank. Bedside X- ray showed fracture of ribs on left side with pneumothorax and air under both the dome of diaphragm. Emergency tube thoracostomy done and respiratory symptoms improved. Further patient evaluated with Ultrasound abdomen and Computerized tomogram of abdomen. Dilated bowels, gross pneumoperitoneum with minimal fluid collection was noted. Diagnostic laparoscopy done to find out hollow viscous perforation or diaphragm injury but to the surprising hollow viscous and diaphragm found to be normal. Case Discussion: Pneumothorax and pnemoperitoneum with presence of abdominal contusions make the surgeon in dilemma for choosing conservative or therapeutic approach. Conclusion: Diagnostic laparoscopy with systemic exploration of abdominal organs and spaces will help in diagnosis and mandatory laparotomy may avoided.