Internal injuries pose a severe risk after any significant accident, especially those involving blunt force trauma. Because these injuries can affect vital organs and blood vessels, timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. For more information about how internal injuries can be diagnosed, continue reading and speak with a skilled Washington, D.C. injury attorney today.
What Are Internal Injuries?
Internal injuries are forms of trauma that occur inside the body, affecting organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues, without any obvious external signs like bleeding or open wounds. Because the symptoms are not immediately visible, these injuries can be particularly dangerous and life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. They commonly result from blunt force trauma, such as that sustained in car accidents, falls, or forceful impacts, due to the energy of the collision or impact.
Examples of internal injuries include:
- Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Fractured ribs that puncture a lung (pneumothorax)
- Torn ligaments or tendons
- Contusions (bruising) or lacerations of internal organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys
- Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions or cerebral hemorrhages
- Ruptured intestines or diaphragm
How Are Internal Injuries Diagnosed After an Accident in D.C.?
Diagnosing internal injuries after an accident is done through a combination of physical assessment and medical imaging, as external signs are often non-existent or misleading. The process typically begins in the emergency room or doctor’s office with a thorough physical examination where doctors look for subtle clues, such as abdominal rigidity, tenderness, distension, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or altered mental status, which are all potential indicators of internal bleeding or organ damage.
The most important diagnostic tools are various forms of medical imaging. For immediate, life-threatening assessments in trauma centers, the FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) exam uses ultrasound to quickly detect free fluid in the abdomen or around the heart, which is usually blood.
More detailed diagnosis relies on:
- CT (Computed Tomography) scans: These are crucial for visualizing internal organs, detecting lacerations, contusions, and internal bleeding in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis.
- X-rays: Used primarily to identify fractures, especially rib fractures that may have punctured a lung.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Often used to get detailed images of soft tissues, ligaments, and the brain, particularly in cases of suspected traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage.
Blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) to monitor blood loss and comprehensive metabolic panels, also play a crucial role in diagnosis and monitoring the patient’s condition.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an internal injury after an accident, seeking legal guidance is essential. A knowledgeable Washington, D.C. injury attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate complex medical and legal processes, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.