Injury to the inferior epigastric artery can result in significant abdominal wall or pelvic hemorrhage.
Origin of the inferior epigastric artery: external iliac artery, above the inguinal ligament
Course of the inferior epigastric artery: medial and cephalad along the posterior rectus sheath
Risk factors for hemorrhage from the inferior epigastric artery:
(1) coagulopathy
(2) iatrogenic abdominal and/or pelvic trauma (paracentesis, surgery, percutaneous drain placement, subcutaneous injection)
(3) other abdominal and/or pelvic trauma (blunt trauma, penetrating trauma such as stabbing)
Hemorrhage can usually be demonstrated by arteriography with contrast. Contrast medium-enhanced CT is specific but only 70% sensitive.
Embolization is usually an effective intervention.
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Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care, Surgery, general, Gastroenterology
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