Question

A 24-year-old man presents after a high-speed motorbike collision. He is hypotensive (BP 80/40 mmHg), tachycardic and has a distended abdomen. FAST scan shows free intraperitoneal fluid. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Urgent laparotomy

Answer

CT abdomen with contrast

Answer

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage

Answer

Observation in the emergency department

Answer

Interventional radiology embolisation without surgery

Practice question

A 24-year-old man presents after a high-speed motorbike collision. He is hypotensive (BP 80/40 mmHg), tachycardic and has a distended abdomen. FAST scan shows free intraperitoneal fluid. What is the most appropriate immediate management?