Case Report: Traumatic Intestinal Perforation Following a Minor Fall in an Elderly Male
Introduction Traumatic intestinal perforation is a serious but often overlooked consequence of blunt abdominal trauma. In elderly patients, physiological changes and subtle clinical presentations can delay diagnosis, leading to septic shock and high mortality. This case highlights how even a minor fall can result in life-threatening intra-abdominal injury. Case Summary An 80-year-old male presented to the emergency department with hypotension and altered sensorium three days after a domestic fall. The fall was reportedly mild, with no external injuries or immediate abdominal pain. On arrival, his vitals were: Blood pressure: 70/40 mmHg Pulse: 124/min Respiratory rate: 28/min Temperature: 99°F On examination, the abdomen was distended, rigid, and silent on auscultation , with diffuse tenderness and guarding. There was no evidence of external trauma. Initial resuscitation was started with intravenous fluids, oxygen, and broad-spectrum antibiotics. An erect abdom...
