Trauma and Critical Care

Any penetrating trauma to the upper abdomen during late gestation can result in complex intestinal injury. Furthermore, clinical signs of peritoneal irritation are less evident in pregnant women and must be further explored by imaging. The FAST exam is typically preferred and very sensitive in detecting intraperitoneal bleeding, but when it is not available, other imaging modalities should be considered. CT should not be delayed or deferred due to concerns of fetal radiation exposure.