Every second counts in trauma care. For a 25-year-old man rushed to our Emergency Department following a high-impact road traffic accident, those seconds made the difference between life and death.
The Critical Moment
When the ambulance doors opened, our trauma team knew they were racing against time. The patient was unresponsive, in severe hypovolemic shock, with blood pressure dangerously low at 70/40 mmHg. His rapid pulse and pallor told the story—massive internal bleeding was stealing his life away.
The Golden Hour Response
Under our hospital’s major trauma protocol, a specialized team assembled within minutes. The primary survey revealed the severity:
- Airway: Patent but weak response
- Breathing: Rapid, shallow, oxygen saturation at 85%
- Circulation: Weak thready pulse, hypotensive
- Disability: GCS 10/15
- Exposure: Abdominal distension and tenderness
Diagnosis at the Speed of Life
A bedside FAST scan (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) immediately showed free fluid in the abdominal cavity—the telltale sign of internal hemorrhage. Within minutes, an urgent CT scan confirmed the diagnosis: massive hemoperitoneum with complete splenic rupture.
From Emergency Room to Operating Theatre in 30 Minutes
The decision was immediate—emergency laparotomy. In what exemplifies exceptional coordination and operational efficiency, only 30 minutes elapsed from arrival to the first surgical incision.
Intraoperative findings revealed:
- Approximately 2 liters of blood and clots in the peritoneal cavity
- Complete splenic rupture with active bleeding from the hilum
- Life-threatening hemorrhage requiring immediate intervention
A swift splenectomy was performed, achieving hemostasis and thoroughly irrigating the abdominal cavity. The patient received 4 units of packed RBCs and 2 units of plasma during surgery.
Recovery: A Testament to Teamwork
Post-surgery, the patient was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit for close monitoring. Within 24 hours, his hemodynamic status stabilized. He progressed to the surgical ward, was gradually mobilized, and received appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis and post-splenectomy vaccination protocols.
Outcome: Full recovery and discharge in stable condition within days.
Why the 30-Minute Response Matters
This case demonstrates several critical factors in trauma survival:
- Immediate Protocol Activation: Our major trauma protocol ensures the right specialists are present within minutes
- Bedside Diagnostics: FAST scan capability at the bedside eliminates delays
- OR Readiness: 24/7 operating theatre availability with trauma-ready teams
- Multidisciplinary Excellence: Seamless coordination between emergency, anesthesia, surgery, and critical care
Understanding Splenic Rupture
The spleen, located in the upper left abdomen, is highly vascular and vulnerable to trauma. When ruptured, massive internal bleeding occurs rapidly, blood pressure drops dangerously, and without immediate surgery, survival is unlikely.
Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports injuries
- Falls from height
- Direct abdominal trauma
Post-Splenectomy Life
Modern medicine has protocols to ensure patients thrive after spleen removal:
- Vaccination against encapsulated bacteria (pneumococcus, meningococcus, H. influenzae)
- Antibiotic prophylaxis in certain cases
- Patient education on infection risks
- Regular follow-up care
Most patients resume completely normal lives with appropriate precautions.
Burjeel’s Trauma Excellence
Our trauma capabilities include:
- 24/7 specialized trauma teams
- Immediate CT and imaging availability
- State-of-the-art operating theatres
- ICU with advanced monitoring
- Blood bank with immediate access
- Multidisciplinary approach
Our Experts
Dr. Mohamed Elsayed Eraki Ibrahium
Medical Director & Consultant – General, Laparoscopic Surgery & Oncosurgery
Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah
Dr. Amir Husain
Specialist – Anesthesia
Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah
When Seconds Count, Choose Experience
If you or a loved one experiences trauma, remember that rapid, expert care makes all the difference. Burjeel Hospital’s trauma teams are ready 24/7 to provide life-saving care.
