Management of hepatic injury
Hanna, S.S.; Jirsch, D.W.
Canadian Medical Association Journal 117(4): 352-353
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-4409 PMID: 890631 Document Number: 117412
Liver injuries may be due to either blunt or penetrating trauma to the thorax or abdomen. Specific treatment depends on the site and extent of hepatic injury. Following resuscitation with i.v. fluids and blood as needed, surgical therapy is directed to provide hemostasis, remove necrotic liver tissue and promote adequate external drainage in the postoperative period. While local measures are usually sufficient, complex hepatic wounds may require extensive resection and vascular ligature or repair.