Case report of an isolated pancreatic transection from low impact blunt abdominal trauma necessitating resective surgery

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Isolated pancreatic injury from blunt force trauma is an extremely rare entity accounting for less than 1 % of trauma presentations. This case highlights the diagnostic difficulties of identifying a ductal injury and presents a rare instance of an isolated pancreatic transection from a relatively low-impact blunt abdominal trauma. CASE PRESENTATION: A 30 year old lady presented to the emergency department 24 h following a low impact abdominal trauma. CT scan showed a complete pancreatic transection with significant peripancreatic free fluid. MRCP showed the main pancreatic duct to be in alignment on either side of the transection plane, however given the significant surrounding free fluid she was taken to the operating theatre for exploration and resective surgery. Intraoperative findings were that of a complete pancreatic transection involving the main pancreatic duct. DISCUSSION: Current management guidelines focus on the correct evaluation of main pancreatic duct integrity. Timely intervention is essential for improving mortality and morbidity outcomes. Reported sensitivity and specificity for imaging modalities vary between studies, likely reflecting inherent challenges in accurately identifying pancreatic duct injuries. Multi-modal assessment is recommended to reach a timely diagnosis and hence, institute the appropriate therapy. CONCLUSION: Low-energy trauma can result in isolated injuries of the pancreas. Multi-modal imaging should be encouraged for evaluation of main pancreatic duct integrity. This will facilitate timely decision making regarding the need for definitive surgery.