Grading the Severity of a Penetrating Abdominal Wound
When ranking the severity of penetrating abdominal injuries, the most crucial point to remember is that every penetrating wound is a medical emergency. The hole will not close on its own; however, not all emergencies are created equal. The location of the injury is one of the most important determining factors because this indicates which structures underneath could be damaged. For example:
- In the right upper quadrant, important organs include the liver, the gallbladder, and the common bile duct.
- In the left upper quadrant, the most important structure is the spleen.
- A penetrating wound in the center places the stomach and the pancreas at risk.
- Either the right or the left lower quadrant places the ovaries and uterus (in women), the intestines, and the bladder at risk.
The location of the wound will help the physician determine just how critical the injury might be. In addition to the area, the size of the wound, potential blood loss, and whether or not the injury is getting bigger will also be evaluated. During this process, treatment will also start.
Treatment of a Penetrating Abdominal Wound
One of the ways that people can suffer abdominal trauma is in a car accident. Anyone who comes into the emergency room with a penetrating abdominal wound will probably require surgery to repair the hole. Along the way, imaging might be obtained if the patient is still clinically stable. This imaging will give the surgeons a better idea of the structures that could have been injured. In the operating room, the surgeon will repair any organs underneath that might have been damaged. Then, the abdominal muscles will be closed over the top of the organs. Finally, layers of fascia and skin will be sealed. After this, the individual will require a significant period of bed rest as the surgical site heals.
Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer
A motor vehicle accident can cause serious injuries. If a loved one requires surgery, this only makes everything more complicated. This can put families in a stressful situation. Under these circumstances, families and their loved ones need to know that help is available. Meeting with a personal injury attorney in Sacramento can provide families with resources that will assist in their recovery. An experienced injury lawyer can help with:
- Working with a team of accident reconstruction professionals to make sure that the mechanism of the accident is correct in the report.
- Providing assistance to those interested in pursuing damages secondary to their injuries, any complications, and even pain and suffering.
- Working with insurance companies to maximize the benefits that are awarded.
- Transferring a case to trial if required.
Families need to remember to ask for help. Reach out to a Sacramento personal injury attorney today. You could be deserving of a financial award.
Sacramento Personal Injury Attorneys
I’m Ed Smith, a Personal Injury Attorney in Sacramento. A penetrating wound of the abdomen is a medical emergency and deserves appropriate medical care. If your loved one has suffered a severe abdominal wound after a significant motor vehicle collision, please call me today at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice.
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