SIGMOID COLON TRANSECTION FOLLOWING A SEAT BELT INJURY: A CASE REPORT

Background: Seatbelts have reduced the number of fatal head, chest and abdominal injuries. They have, however, introduced a set of injuries comprising abdominal wall bruising, Intra-abdominal injuries, and lumbar spine fractures collectively termed the seat belt syndrome.

Case presentation:  A 60-year-old man who was transferred to our emergency department after sustaining a blunt abdominal trauma after a road traffic accident. An exploratory laparotomy was performed revealed a sigmoid transection that was treated by an Hartmanns pouch procedure. After further management, the patient was discharged with no further complaints.

Conclusion: The presence of a seatbelt sign should raise the suspicion of a significant intra-abdominal injury. Responding to clinical signs is critical and early diagnosis and management reduces morbidity and mortality.