Contemporary evaluation and management of renal trauma.

INTRODUCTION: Renal trauma occurs in approximately 1%-5% of all trauma cases. Improvements in imaging and management over the last two decades have caused a shift in the treatment of this clinical condition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed was performed to identify relevant and contemporary articles that referred to the management and evaluation of renal trauma.

RESULTS: Computed tomography remains a mainstay of radiological evaluation in hemodynamically stable patients. There is a growing body of literature showing that conservative, non-operative management of renal trauma is safe, even for Grade IV-V renal injuries. If surgical exploration is planned due to other injuries, a conservative approach to the kidney can often be utilized. Follow up imaging may be warranted in certain circumstances. Urinoma, delayed bleeding, and hypertension are complications that require follow up.

CONCLUSION: Appropriate imaging and conservative approaches are a mainstay of current renal trauma management.