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Is Peritoneal Lavage for the Diagnosis of Hemoperitoneum Safe?
H. Hollis Caffee, MD;
John R. Benfield, MD
AMA Arch Surg. 1971;103(1):4-7.
Abstract
Seventy patients had exploratory laparotomy after blunt abdominal trauma in 1969 at Harbor General Hospital. Forty-eight (69%) had preoperative peritoneal lavage. Seeking to evaluate the safety and sensitivity of this technique, the results have been summarized. We conclude that (1) Very small amounts of blood can yield a positive result. Two false positives resulted from puncture site bleeding. (2) Most positive results are unequivocal (67%). (3) Attention to the procedural details outlined should aid to minimize complications. (4) The complication rate of properly conducted diagnostic peritoneal lavage is sufficiently low to warrant continued enthusiastic use of this technique when indicated.
Author Affiliations
Torrance, Calif
From the Department of Surgery, Harbor General Hospital, Torrance, Calif; and the University of California School of Medicine at Los Angeles.
Footnotes
Accepted for publication Feb 10, 1971.
Read before the annual meeting of the Southern California Chapter of the American College of Surgeons, Palm Springs, Calif, Jan 16, 1971.
Reprint requests to 1000 W Carson St, Torrance, Calif 90509 (Dr. Benfield).
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