Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie
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The incidence of hollow-organ injury has increased steadily since the use of seat-belts was introduced. It has become apparent that the clinical manifestations of intestinal injury may be delayed considerably. Delayed perforations can pose a diagnostic challenge to the attending surgeon. ⋯ All patients had low severity of injury (scores ranging from 4 to 13) but had persistent vague abdominal pain before perforation occurred. Three of the four patients suffered spinal trauma as their major initial injury. Such patients appear to be at higher risk for delayed perforation and should be monitored carefully.