Author(s): K Kamal, S Rihane, Z Moustaquime, A Ettaoussi, A Majd, M Bouali, A El Bakouri and K El Hattabi
Abstract: Seat belt syndrome refers to a spectrum of injuries caused by restraint systems during motor vehicle collisions. The presence of a seat belt sign is a strong predictor of underlying intra-abdominal injury. We report the case of a 50-year-old man involved in a high-speed motor vehicle accident who presented with abdominal tenderness and a transverse abdominal contusion. Computed tomography revealed pneumoperitoneum and peritoneal effusion. Exploratory laparotomy identified a small bowel perforation with peritoneal contamination, managed by peritoneal lavage, ileostomy, and drainage. The postoperative course was complicated by an abdominal wall infection requiring surgical debridement, with eventual recovery. This case highlights the importance of early imaging, surgical exploration, and close monitoring in patients with a seat belt sign to prevent delayed diagnosis and complications.
K Kamal, S Rihane, Z Moustaquime, A Ettaoussi, A Majd, M Bouali, A El Bakouri, K El Hattabi. Seatbelt syndrome: A case report. Int J Case Rep Surg 2025;7(2):394-396. DOI: 10.22271/27081494.2025.v7.i2f.247
