(no subject)

[DocRickFry@aol.com]

In a message dated 8/31/00 9:28:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
hairul_ahmad@hotmail.com writes:

<< What does the member think of the place of laparoscopy (vs laparotomy) in 
a 
 stable patient with penetrating abdominal injury.? Our practice is to use 
 laproscopy to establisk peritoneal breach. Once this is confirmed we then to 
 proceed to laparotomy - even if the laparoscopy is normal. What is the 
 general consensus in this situation. >>
This indication has nver been confirmed as beneficial by any data--and, mere 
penetration of the peritoneum is not in itself a firm indication to operate, 
especially from stab wounds--simple observation with serial exams is much 
cheaper, safer, and proven to work in several studies.
ERF