title: Rectus sheath hematoma: a simplified emergency surgical approach.
abstract: Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is an uncommon clinical event usually associated with trauma or coagulation disorders. It can also occur spontaneously. RSH usually runs a benign course but it can present with hypovolemic shock. When conservative management fails, surgical exploration becomes mandatory. We propose a technique of emergency ligation of the inferior epigastric artery. This is a simple approach as this artery originates at the posterior rectus sheath above the inguinal ligament. This safe technique provides immediate hemodynamic stabilization.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mantelas
authors.forename: Niki
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Katsiki
authors.forename: Polychronis
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Antonitsis
authors.forename: Ellada
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kyurdzhieva
authors.forename: Dimitri P
authors.initials: DP
authors.lastname: Mikhailidis
authors.forename: Apostolos
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hatzitolios