Korean J Leg Med.  1998 Oct;22(2):56-60.

Blunt Injury and Penetrating Inujury of the Abdomen

• Chae JM

Abstract

In blunt abdominal trauma, the abdomen may be compressed and crushed without disruption of the skin, without external bruising, and yet extensive and fatal internal injuries may be present. The penetrating wounds are especially dangerous because of the possibility of grave injury to internal organs or major blood vessels. The majority are homicidal injuries: suicide by stabbing, or accidental stabbing, is infrequent. The abdominal injuries usually coexist with other-site injuries, especially with chest injuries. The homicide and the suicide often aim at the heart, in consequence wound the left side of the chest or upper abdomen. This review is discussed on the mechanism of the blunt and penetrating abdominal injury, types of injury, and significance of medicolegal aspects of the abdominal trauma.

MeSH Terms

Abdomen*
Abdominal Injuries
Blood Vessels
Heart
Homicide
Skin
Suicide
Thoracic Injuries
Thorax
Wounds and Injuries
Wounds, Nonpenetrating*
Wounds, Penetrating