The management of stab wounds to the back.

The management of stab wounds to the back is controversial. There are certain clear indications for exploratory laparotomy, but most cases require a diagnostic workup and a period of observation. In this article, different diagnostic modalities are presented, including local wound exploration, diagnostic peritoneal lavage, abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan, triple-contrast abdominal CT scan, and intravenous pyelography (IVP). Recommendations for management are given, with emphasis on abdominal CT scan and observation.