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When Should You Operate on Major Hepatic Trauma?

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Difficult Decisions in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery

Part of the book series: Difficult Decisions in Surgery: An Evidence-Based Approach ((DDSURGERY))

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Abstract

Hepatic trauma causes a significant amount of morbidity and mortality. The decision to on whether or not to operate is a key step in managing this problem. Operative management carries with it a higher rate of morbidity and mortality than non-operative management. However, clear indications do exist when an operation is needed. These include hemodynamic instability, continued bleeding, peritonitis, and other abdominal injuries requiring operation. Operative management involves a graded response to the injury. Selected angioembolization can be a useful adjunct to both operative and non-operative approach to hepatic trauma.

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Correspondence to Martin A. Croce .

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Evans, C., Croce, M.A. (2016). When Should You Operate on Major Hepatic Trauma?. In: Millis, J., Matthews, J. (eds) Difficult Decisions in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery. Difficult Decisions in Surgery: An Evidence-Based Approach. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-27365-5_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-27365-5_6

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-27363-1

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