SPLENIC TRAUMA - VALUE OF FOLLOW-UP CT

PURPOSE: To determine the value of follow-up computed tomography (CT) after expectant treatment in patients with clinically stable blunt spl enic trauma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records and CT studies for 42 patients were reviewed, and injuries were graded on a scale of 1-6 . Patients were divided into three groups: stable patients with no fol low-up CT (group 1, n = 14), stable patients with follow-up CT (group 2, n = 22), and symptomatic patients with follow-up (group 3, n = 6). Serial hemoglobin values and clinical findings at follow-up CT were re viewed. RESULTS: All patients in groups 1 and 2 remained clinically st able with good outcomes. In group 3, follow-up CT scans demonstrated w orsening condition in four patients (67%), and three of the four had p oor outcomes. CONCLUSION: Follow-up CT may be unnecessary in patients with clinically stable splenic trauma.