Abdominal injuries may be closed (no skin broken) or open (skin broken and abdominal wall penetrated).

Injuries to the genitalia may also be present. Injuries to the genitalia are not life-threatening, but are usually very painful. Treatment for these injuries will be conducted during the tactical field care phase of care.

a. Open Abdominal Wounds.

Open abdominal wounds are caused by an object penetrating the skin and abdominal wall. The penetration may be caused by a bullet or a knife, by an object blown from an explosion, or by falling on a sharp object. Organs and/or blood vessels located in the abdominal cavity may be punctured. The wound may expose organs. Sometimes organs, such as part of an intestine, may protrude through the wound.

b. Closed Abdominal Injuries.

Closed abdominal injuries are caused by a blow to the abdomen. Although the skin is not broken, organs and/or blood vessels located in the abdominal cavity may be lacerated or ruptured.