Abstract

TORO, Juan Pablo et al. Blunt splenic trauma: predictors of failure of nonoperative management. rev. colomb. cir. [online]. 2014, vol.29, n.3, pp.204-212. ISSN 2011-7582.

Background: Nonoperative Management (NOM) of blunt splenic injuries is the preferred method of management for splenic preservation; however, the criteria for deciding what group of patients can be managed non-operatively remain controversial. The aim of this study was to describe the general features of this group of patients as well as to explore the results and factors related to failure of NOM. Methods: We described patients who were admitted to a first level trauma center with a diagnosis of blunt splenic injury between January 2003 and March 2009. The patients were classified in two groups: operative management and NOM; in the last group we analyzed the factors associated with failure. Results: A total of 82 patients were included in the study. Operative Management during the primary or secondary survey was performed on 25.6 % of patients, while 74.4% under went NOM. Of those who underwent NOM, 22.9% failed treatment. An Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥20 (RR: 6.4 – CI 95%: 2.34-17.86), hemoperitoneum on the initial computed tomography (CT) scan (p=0.02), and splenic injury grade were factors associated with failed NOM (FNOM). The overall mortality rate was 7.3%; 14.3% for OM and 4.9% for NOM groups, respectively. Conclusions: The majority of blunt splenic trauma patients are candidates for NOM, as it is a safe and effective technique for splenic preservation if continuous medical surveillance is maintained.

Keywords : splenic rupture; wounds and injuries; trauma severity indices; complications; therapeutics.

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