Diagnostic Peritoneal Lavage: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Applications in Abdominal Trauma

Abstract

While advanced imaging modalities have revolutionized trauma care, diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) remains an irreplaceable diagnostic tool in specific clinical scenarios. This letter argues for the continued relevance of DPL as the most sensitive invasive method for detecting intraperitoneal bleeding, particularly in hemodynamically unstable patients where Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) and Computed Tomography (CT) scanning are not feasible. Despite technological advances, the unique diagnostic capabilities of DPL warrant its preservation in emergency trauma protocols.

Keywords: Penetrating abdominal trauma, Blunt abdominal trauma, Diagnostic peritoneal lavage