Liver Laceration

The liver secretes bile which breaks down the fat in food.  It also filters harmful substances from the blood.  It has many other functions.  A liver laceration is a tear that causes bleeding.  It can be large or small.  It may need to be repaired in surgery.

 

Tests

 

• CT scan (Computed Tomography scan) uses x-rays to obtain pictures of the liver.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) gives a better view of the liver and the tissue around it.
• FAST (Focal Assessment Sonogram in Trauma) is an ultrasound often done in the emergency department.  It looks for blood around the liver.

 

Treatment

 

• You will have blood drawn every six hours to check certain blood levels.  These tests can reveal if the liver is still bleeding.  If these levels remain stable, surgery is not needed.  If the blood levels start to decrease, surgery may be needed.  In surgery, the tear will be repaired.
• You may be on bed rest.  This helps to keep the tear from getting bigger.  It also prevents more bleeding
• You may not be allowed to eat until your health care team decides whether you will need surgery or not.

 

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 06/08/2009

Copyright © 06/08/2009 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6895

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