Role of Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma in the Assessment of Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Abstract

Focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST), is the sonographic examination of the abdomen and pelvis for the detection of presence of free fluid in intraperitoneal or pericardial region. Blunt abdominal trauma is one of the most common causes of all injuries. Blunt abdominal trauma is usually not obvious. Hence, often missed, unless, repeatedly looked for. Due to the delay in diagnosis and inadequate treatment of the abdominal injuries, most of the cases are fatal. Knowledge about the management of blunt abdominal trauma has progressively increased. Despite the best techniques and advances in diagnostic and supportive care, morbidity and mortality remain high. This could be due to the interval between trauma and hospitalization, inadequate and lack of appropriate surgical treatment, delay in diagnosis, postoperative complications and associated trauma specially to head, thorax and pelvis.