Internal abdominal injuries are rare, even in traumatic accidents such as high speed auto collisions and falls from height. However, when they do occur, they can be life threatening. A broken rib can sever the liver or a blunt force impact can cause hemorrhaging of the spleen. Most people associate a burst appendix with an infection, but the appendix can also be damaged in an accident and cause sepsis throughout the days that it goes undiagnosed. It is critical to receive medical care as soon as possible if you suspect you have an internal organ injury, as bleeding out can occur quickly, and you cannot simply apply pressure to stop the loss of blood like you can with an external laceration.
The pancreas is a small organ and not likely to be damaged in an accident. However, a misdiagnosis can spell disaster as sepsis becomes a risk. Additionally, pancreas misdiagnoses are common due to few physical signs of damage, according to a 2010 study.
The spleen is one of the more dangerous organs to injure, as it can bleed out if a vital blood-supplying vessel is severed. Located in the upper left segment of the abdomen, the spleen is protected by the ribs. However, those same ribs that protect it can potentially puncture it if they are severely fractured.
Both kidneys are also protected by the ribs, though only partially. A serious blow the kidneys can cause internal bleeding due to their large blood supply, which is life-threatening. Symptoms of a damaged kidney is blood in the urine or urine leakage into the body.
Any damage to the bowels can result in sepsis, as bacteria and other waste matter can leak through the tears and into the body. The small intestines are especially at risk due to the large amount of space they take up (they are 20 feet in length).
Liver trauma is quite possibly the most severe type of internal abdominal organ injury, aside from the heart. The liver is also the most vulnerable organ due to its large size, fragility, and location in the upper right segment of the abdomen, according to a study done in 2011. The liver is supplied with great quantities of blood, which means that it is especially susceptible to internal bleeding if it is severed. If the damage is severe, a patient can bleed to death before reaching the hospital.
If you have been injured in a car accident, work accident, premises fall, or other incident where you were not at fault, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and property damage. The state of Ohio gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. You can learn about your legal options by working with an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact Schottenstein Law Offices today at (614) 467-8474 to schedule your complimentary consultation.