CT in post-traumatic hypoperfusion complex - A pictorial review

Hypoperfusion complex is an uncommon entity found on computed tomography (CT) of blunt trauma. It is more common in children compared to adults. Everyone should be aware of this entity to interact with clinicians to aid in triage and management of patients in view of poor prognosis. It is also important to prevent unnecessary laparotomies by confusing abdominal organ injuries. There are certain visceral and vascular findings described on abdominal CT that would alert the radiologist for this entity. This pictorial review should increase radiologists' awareness and recognition of the CT manifestations of hypoperfusion complex before an irreversible state of shock occurs in blunt abdominal trauma. © Am Soc Emergency Radiol 2010.