PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS OF ISOLATED PENETRATING GALLBLADDER INJURY IN AN ASYMPTOMATIC PATIENT - THE ROLE OF HEPATO-IMINODIACETIC ACID SCAN AS THE DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSTIC TEST

The decision for nonoperative treatment of abdominal stab wounds is us ually based on clinical examination findings. It is important, however , to identify patients who may suffer occult injuries and, therefore, be benefited from further diagnostic evaluation. Isolated penetrating gallbladder injuries may produce minimal symptoms initially. A high in dex of suspicion and appropriate selection of imaging studies may lead to early identification. Hepato-iminodiacetic acid scan can be used a s the definitive diagnostic imaging test in such occasions.