Blunt Injury to the Ileum Following a Bull Attack: Case Report

Abstract

Detection of small bowel injury after blunt abdominal trauma can be challenging. Occurrence is rare, but delay in the diagnosis and surgical repair increases patient morbidity and mortality. We present a case of crushing-type injury of the distal ileum in a farmer who has been attacked by a Highland bull. On arrival at the emergency department, physical examination and imaging modalities were reassuring. The maintenance of high clinical suspicion led us to perform an exploratory laparotomy that brought the ileal perforation to light.

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Notes on contributors

E. Wybaillie

E. Wybaillie, General Surgery Trainee AZ Sint-Augustinus Iepersesteenweg 100 8630 Veurne, Belgium E-mail: [email protected]