High grade splenic rupture in an elite Rugby Union player

The authors present the case of an amateur under-18 international squad Rugby Union player who sustained a Grade III splenic rupture while scoring a try. He was admitted to hospital and treated with strict bedrest following initial computed tomography (CT) evaluation. He maintained hemodynamic stability throughout and registered no drop in hemoglobin. A repeat CT scan five days later showed no radiological progression and he was discharged with instructions to avoid exercise for three months. A follow-up CT scan performed at 10 weeks after the injury showed radiological resolution but the decision was made to avoid physical contact for a further three months. The player made a full recovery and is now back playing representative rugby. This report reviews the management and raises the question as to when players should be allowed back to play contact sports following a splenic rupture.
© Copyright 2010 The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness. Edizioni Minerva Medica. All rights reserved.

Bibliographic Details
Subjects:
Notations:biological and medical sciences strength and speed sports
Published in:The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
Language:English
Published: 2010
Online Access:https://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/sports-med-physical-fitness/article.php?cod=R40Y2010N01A0068
Volume:50
Issue:1
Pages:68-71
Document types:article
Level:advanced