Hepatic trauma and its management.

This review examines the current management of trauma to the liver. The incidence, mechanism, classification, diagnosis, treatment and complications of hepatic trauma are discussed. Diagnosis of hepatic injury may be difficult and specific investigations are suggested. Non-operative treatment and the strict criteria necessary to identify suitable patients for this are assessed. The recent trend to conservative surgery in hepatic trauma is reviewed. Aggressive resuscitation and early control of bleeding are crucial and are emphasized.