ABSTRACT
Introduction
The vast majority of the published data on the appropriate use of the diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) is dated. Currently in Canada, there is a significant grey-zone surrounding the teaching and use of the DPL. The objectives of this article are to briefly review the recent literature, to analyze the patterns in the use of the DPL in Canada, and to determine whether general surgery residents are being taught the skill.
Methods
Literature review was conducted using PubMed and Ovid. The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) supplied the available data on DPL usage in Canada. General surgery program directors in Canada were contacted by e-mail to determine if the DPL was still being taught.
Results
Between the years of 2001 and 2006 in Canada, 38 DPLs were coded into the CIHI's database. Males accounted for 84.2% of the DPLs, and 23.7% of all DPLs resulted in a laparotomy. Motor vehicle crashes were the reason that 42% of the DPLs were performed. The majority of general surgery residency programs in Canada are not teaching the DPL outside of what is taught in the advanced trauma life support (ATLS) course.
Discussion
The literature reviewed shows that the DPL continues to play a role in the current management of patients suffering from both blunt and penetrating trauma, although a much more limited role than in the past.
How to cite this article
Boone D, Clarkson CA. The Diagnostic Peritoneal Lavage: A Brief Review of the Current Literature and an Analysis of Its use and Teaching in Canada. Panam J Trauma Critical Care Emerg Surg 2012;1(3):150-153.
The Diagnostic Peritoneal Lavage: A Brief Review of the Current Literature and an Analysis of Its use and Teaching in Canada
