Echographic evaluation of splenic injury after blunt trauma.

In a significant number of patients with blunt abdominal trauma, the diagnosis of ruptured spleen is not readily apparent. Is is in these cases that echographic evaluation appears to aid significantly in diagnosis. Seventy patients with blunt abdominal trauma were studied by echography. Results indicated 61 true negative cases, 1 false negative, 4 true positives, and 4 false positives. Criteria for splenic rutures are set forth. Ultrasound is considered to be an excellent screening procedure for suspected splenic rupture.