*2.2.3 Investigations*

History and physical examination findings are essential but most of the time not enough for complete assessment of traumatic abdominal patient. To appreciate thoroughly abdominal organ injuries certain investigations should be performed to compliment the findings of history and physical examination. The available modalities to use for the assessment of traumatic abdominal patient include: computer tomography (CT), focused assessment sonography for trauma (FAST), laparoscopy, diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) and other basic investigations such as complete blood count (CBC). The key points related to these investigations with respect to the management of abdominal trauma are provided in **Table 5**.



**Table 5.**

*Key points related to stated investigations with respect to the management of abdominal trauma.*
