Serrano PJ, Calzada SAA, Escamilla OAC

Language: Spanish
References: 5
Page: 239-247
PDF size: 296.29 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Acute abdominal pain is one of the most frequent consultations in emergency departments, requiring prompt diagnostic evaluation and treatment to avoid serious and life-threatening complications. Causes can range from inflammatory, infectious, obstructive diseases to ischaemic or traumatic conditions affecting intra-abdominal and extra-abdominal organs. The complexity of diagnosis lies in the diversity of presentations and overlapping symptoms, requiring a systematic approach based on a combination of detailed clinical history, thorough physical examination, imaging studies and, in some cases, urgent surgical intervention. This article reviews the fundamental principles for the diagnosis and initial management of the acute abdomen in the emergency department, addressing the critical steps in evaluation and treatment that can decisively impact the patient's clinical outcome. It also discusses current algorithms and recommendations that seek to standardise care in these cases, prioritising a multidisciplinary and personalised approach.

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