REVIEW – May 2009

Management of renal trauma

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Abstract

The kidney is the most commonly injured genito-urinary organ but majority of renal injuries are mild. Evaluation of haemodynamic stability, mechanism of injury and possibility of pre-existing kidney diseases is most important during initial emergency assessment. Computed tomography with contrast enhancement is the golden standard for diagnosis of renal trauma. Although ultrasonography is a popular diagnostic tool in initial assessment of abdominal trauma, this radiographic  method is not suitable for diagnosis and staging of renal injuries. Grades 1 – 3 and 4.E haemodynamically stable blunt renal trauma patients should be managed conservatively. In the case of 4.D blunt injury renal reconstruction is recommended. Penetrating renal trauma usually requires surgical exploration. Surgical management is indicated in the case of haemorrhagic shock, associated injuries, grade 5 renal trauma and pre-existing renal disease.