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Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine

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Open Access 01-12-2009 | Review

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage: a review of indications, technique, and interpretation

Authors: Jill S Whitehouse, John A Weigelt

Published in: Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine | Issue 1/2009

Abstract

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) is a highly accurate test for evaluating intraperitoneal hemorrhage or a ruptured hollow viscus, but is performed less frequently today due to the increased use of focused abdominal sonography for trauma (FAST) and helical computed tomography (CT). All three of these exams have advantages and disadvantages and thus each still play unique roles in the evaluation of abdominal trauma. Since DPL is performed less frequently today, a review of its indications, technique, and interpretation is pertinent.

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Title: Diagnostic peritoneal lavage: a review of indications, technique, and interpretation
Authors: Jill S Whitehouse
John A Weigelt
Publication date: 01-12-2009
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine / Issue 1/2009
Electronic ISSN: 1757-7241
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1757-7241-17-13

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Diagnostic peritoneal lavage: a review of indications, technique, and interpretation

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