CT scan of Blunt trauma to the spleen

• Spleen is the most commonly injured solid intra-abdominal organ and the Blunt trauma is the most common cause.
• Often (40%) associated with lower rib fractures and left renal injury.
• In 20% of patients with left rib fractures, there is a concomitant splenic injury.
• 25% of patients with left renal injuries also have splenic injuries.
• Damage ranges from subcapsular haematoma to total splenic laceration, potentially leading to exsanguination.

Rupture of the spleen. This CT shows Rupture of the anterior half of the spleen caused by blunt trauma in falling from a horse.Haemorrhage is seen within the splenic bed (arrow) along with free blood around the liver (arrowhead).

Splenic laceration (arrow).