Changing Patterns in the Management of Penetrating Abdominal Trauma: The More Things Change, the More They Stay the Same

Abstract

Penetrating abdominal organ injury patterns and survival from PAI have remained similar over the past decade. Death from refractory hemorrhagic shock in the first 24 hours remains the most common cause of mortality. DCS and the open abdomen are being used more frequently with improved survival but result in significant morbidity.