A traumatic liver injury is common in both blunt and penetrating abdominal injuries. The liver’s anterior location in the abdomen, its fragile parenchyma, and the relative ease in which Gleeson’s capsule is violated makes it susceptible to injury from blunt forces.
Causes
- Most liver injuries are caused by blunt trauma from a car crash, fall, bike wreck or any other activity that causes a hard blow to the abdomen. A penetrating liver injury may also result from a gunshot wound or sharp object that tears or cuts the liver.