Blunt abdominal trauma causing jejunal rupture.

Abstract

Two cases of jejunal rupture from blunt abdominal trauma are described. One followed a motorcycle accident, and the other followed a punch to the abdomen. Both patients initially had unremarkable abdominal examinations. After surgical repair of the ruptures, the patients recovered uneventfully. Jejunal rupture secondary to blunt abdominal trauma is not common, but its subdued clinical presentation and the nonspecific laboratory findings make diagnosis difficult. High morbidity and mortality are associated with this type of injury when diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Small bowel rupture should be considered in any patient with a history of significant blunt abdominal trauma and persistent abdominal pain.