Traumatic Rupture of the Pancreas

Abstract

Traumatic rupture of the pancreas without complicating injury to other abdominal organs is a rare condition and prompts the report of this case. With the recent popularity of the bicycle it may be that we can anticipate an increasing number of patients injured in the abdomen without much evidence of external injury from being struck with the end of the handlebar.

I am indebted to Dr. Norvin Keifer of Geneva, Ohio, for the privilege of seeing this case and for the report of the postoperative care.

Case Report

A white boy, eight years of age, was admitted to the Community Hospital in Geneva, Ohio, at 11:00 a. m., July 23, 1939, with the complaint of having hurt his abdomen in a fall from a bicycle.

The past history was negative except for the usual childhood diseases. He had had convulsions from ingestion of certain foods during infancy and has had a moderate number of gastro-intestinal upsets since that time. Four years ago he had a tonsillectomy, followed by severe postoperative hemorrhage, necessitating a blood transfusion.

The present history dated back one hour, at which time he fell while riding a bicycle. He stated that in turning his bicycle, he had caught the left handlebar in his left trousers pocket and the bicycle had then tipped over in such a manner that the left handlebar was under him while the remainder of the bicycle was on top of him.

There had been no nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, or other symptoms. . .