Liver and Spleen InjuriesThe liver and spleen are easily injured when a child sustains any abdominal trauma. An injury such as a "crack" or "tear" in the liver or spleen may result in serious bleeding with significant blood loss, and may require a blood transfusion or surgery. A CT scan (three dimensional x-ray picture) is done to diagnose and follow the injury with an ultrasound. The majority of these injuries in children do not involve continued bleeding and will heal on their own. Ann operation to repair or remove the spleen, or liver may be necessary. During the time that the liver or spleen injury is healing, it is important to avoid any further abdominal trauma or excessive activity. Immediately after the injury, the child must be limited to strict bed rest in the hospital for 7 days with frequent checks of their blood level (hematocrit), vital signs, and abdominal examinations. the initial period of observation is usually in the intensive care unit. It is critical that the abdomen not be traumatized during the period of healing. For approximately six weeks following the injury, your child will have strict activity restrictions including, but not limited to:
It is OK for your child to attend school, walk, do light housework, and careful swimming. A follow up evaluation in the Pediatric Surgery Clinic will be done at approximately six weeks following discharge from the hospital, this will include a CT scan to determine how the liver/spleen is healing. At that time, your physician will make a decision regarding which activities are permitted or which restrictions should continue, and whether an additional study will be required. You will be contacted by the radiology department the day prior to the CT regarding instructions. You will be called on Friday for a Monday appointment. If you have not been contacted, please call Mott Radiology at 734-936-8355, Monday thru Friday, 8am - 4:30 p.m.. Following the exam, we recommend that you get something for your child to eat and then come to the pediatric surgery appointment. The Pediatric Surgery Department is located on the third floor of Mott Hospital. Continue to follow the red tiles on the floor radiology department (yellow tiles). If your child has abdominal pain or other symptoms associated from their accident prior to their appointment, please contact the pediatric surgery office at (734) 764-4151. Note: Please always wear your seat belt and be sure your child is properly restrained. This information is provided by the University of Michigan Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider or our offices. |
