Successful Surgery Saves Patient with Grade V Liver Rupture Complicated by Severe Hemorrhagic Shock

(DTO) On the afternoon of February 12, Dong Thap General Hospital reported that its medical team had just received and successfully performed emergency surgery on a case of closed abdominal trauma with a Grade V rupture of the right liver lobe - an extremely severe and complex injury complicated by hemorrhagic shock, directly threatening the patient’s life.

Earlier, the patient, Mr. D.V.T. (46, residing in Lai Vung District, Dong Thap), was hospitalized with severe abdominal pain, pale skin, rapid pulse, and narrow pulse pressure after falling from a roof.

Through clinical examination combined with laboratory tests, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced abdominal and pelvic CT scans, doctors determined that the patient had a Grade V rupture of the right liver lobe, causing massive intra-abdominal bleeding and hemorrhagic shock.

This was a critical condition with a very high risk of mortality without timely and proper intervention 

Immediately, the General Surgery team implemented emergency protocols: simultaneously performing active resuscitation via fluid and blood transfusions while conducting urgent surgery. 

"The surgery was performed by Dr. Nguyen Duy Dong (Specialist Level II), Head of the General Surgery Department, and Dr. Nguyen Duy Minh (Specialist Level I) from the same department at Dong Thap General Hospital."

After more than two hours in the operating room, the surgeons successfully sutured the liver, used spongel and surgicell for hemostasis, and removed approximately 2,000 ml of blood from the abdominal cavity. Drains were also placed to monitor post-operative bleeding and bile leakage.

Specialist Doctor II Nguyen Duy Dong shared: “A Grade V liver rupture is among the most severe and complex injuries in abdominal trauma. The liver is a highly vascular organ; when ruptured, it causes significant internal bleeding.  Without prompt surgery, the patient can die very quickly from hemorrhagic shock. Post-operatively, the patient still faces risks such as hepatic necrosis or bile leakage—both very serious complications.”

According to Dr. Dong, thanks to the rapid diagnosis, correct intervention, and close coordination between the resuscitation, surgery, and anesthesia departments, the patient has passed the critical stage.

Currently, Mr. D.V.T.’s health is recovering well. Liver function tests are gradually returning to normal levels, with no signs of cell necrosis or bile leakage. The patient is expected to be discharged in time to celebrate Tet with his family.

The case of Mr. D.V.T. serves as a warning about the risks of occupational accidents in daily life, especially when working at heights without safety measures. 

Simultaneously, it demonstrates the professional capacity of the medical staff at Dong Thap General Hospital in handling severe and complex cases.
The success of this surgery not only saved a life but also strengthened public confidence in the quality of treatment at the provincial level, ensuring that patients receive timely care within their own locality.

By D.C
Translated by X.QUANG