A Case of Small Bowel Perforation with Lumbar Spine Compression Fracture in a Seat Belt Wearer

Abstract

The seat belt syndrome consists of intraabdominal injuries and/or lumbar spine fractures that occur in a car accident because the abdomen is compressed by a wearing seat belt. The diagnosis of small bowel injury in the seat belt syndrome is often difficult, leading to delayed laparotomy. The strong association between lumbar spine fracture and intraabdominal injuries is well known. Therefore, the presence of a lumbar compression fracture after a seat belt trauma should prompt further investigation to rule out a possible association of intraabdominal injury, especially to the small bowel. It is important not to miss a timing for laparotomy.