S37.02

Clinical Causes: Motor vehicle accidents, such as car or motorcycle crashes Falls from significant heights Blunt trauma during sports activities Physical assault or violence

Key Symptoms: Sudden, severe flank or back pain localized to one side Visible bruising or swelling over the affected area Blood in the urine (hematuria) Tenderness when pressing on the affected side Nausea and vomiting Signs of shock in severe cases, such as dizziness or fainting

Diagnosis Path: To confirm a major kidney contusion, healthcare providers typically perform a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Diagnostic steps may include: - **Physical Examination:** Checking for tenderness, swelling, and signs of internal bleeding. - **Urinalysis:** Detecting blood or other abnormalities in the urine. - **Imaging Tests:** The primary modality is often a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis, which provides detailed images of kidney injuries. Ultrasound may be used as an initial assessment in certain cases. - **Blood Tests:** Measuring blood counts and kidney function indicators to assess damage severity.

Treatment Protocols: Management of a major kidney contusion depends on the injury's severity and the patient's overall condition. Typical approaches include: - **Observation and Rest:** Mild to moderate injuries often require close monitoring, bed rest, and activity restrictions. - **Pain Management:** Use of analgesics to control discomfort. - **Hydration:** Ensuring adequate fluid intake to support kidney healing. - **Monitoring for Complications:** Regular assessment for ongoing bleeding or signs of worsening injury. - **Surgical Intervention:** In cases of extensive damage, persistent bleeding, or urine leakage, procedures such as surgical repair or in severe cases, removal of the damaged part of the kidney (partial nephrectomy) or complete removal (nephrectomy) may be necessary. - **Follow-up:** Imaging and clinical assessments to ensure proper healing and renal function restoration.