When should I consider referring a patient with penetrating abdominal trauma to a surgical team?

Consider referring a patient with penetrating abdominal trauma to a surgical team immediately if they show signs of haemodynamic instability or active bleeding that is not controlled by initial resuscitation measures. Surgical intervention is critical in patients who are not responding to volume resuscitation and may require damage control surgery to control bleeding and manage injuries.

Patients with normal haemodynamic status but with penetrating abdominal trauma should also be considered for definitive surgical assessment and management. Early involvement of a surgical team ensures timely decision-making regarding the need for operative intervention or interventional radiology.

Referral is also indicated if imaging or clinical assessment suggests injuries requiring emergency laparotomy or if there is suspicion of arterial haemorrhage that cannot be managed conservatively.

In summary, urgent referral to a surgical team is warranted in penetrating abdominal trauma patients with haemodynamic instability, active bleeding, or evidence of significant intra-abdominal injury requiring operative management.

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