title: Compressive blunt trauma of the abdomen and pelvis associated with abdominal aortic rupture.
abstract: Blunt trauma to the abdominal aorta is an uncommon but life-threatening injury. Its incidence and mortality are related to road traffic accidents and have increased during the last years mainly because of the compulsory use of seat belts. A high level of suspicion and medical knowledge is necessary for its diagnosis and appropriate management. We present a rare case of abdominal compression leading to pelvic fracture and disruption of the aortic wall with a fatal result. With this case study and a literature review, we would like to stress the importance of recognition, management and follow-up of the blunt abdominal injuries associated with pelvic trauma in order to improve the outcome.
authors.affiliation: Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Efstathios
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Katsoulis
authors.forename: Christophoros
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Tzioupis
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Sparks
authors.forename: Peter V
authors.initials: PV
authors.lastname: Giannoudis
mesh_terms: D000007:Abdominal Injuries; D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000328:Adult; D001012:Aorta, Abdominal / Q000293:injuries*; D001019:Aortic Rupture / Q000209:etiology*; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010388:Pelvis / Q000293:injuries; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating