THORACOABDOMINAL INJURIES IN THE ATHLETE

Thoracoabdominal injuries in the athlete are uncommon but often catast rophic events if unrecognized or if diagnosis and treatment is delayed . In contrast to athletic injuries of other organ systems, thoracoabdo minal injuries generally result from either rapid deceleration or high -energy impact to the thorax or abdomen. In this regard, athletes invo lved in high-speed sports such as bicycling, skiing, and motorized eve nts; athletes involved in high-altitude sports such as bungee jumping, parachuting, and rock climbing; and athletes involved in high-energy contact sports, such as football, hockey, and boxing, are at particula r risk. Nonetheless, given the right circumstances, thoracoabdominal i njuries can occur in any athlete.