[The value of peritoneal lavage in the diagnosis of closed abdominal injury (author's transl)].
The authors render an account of their experiences with peritoneal lavage done on blunt closed abdominal injuries, mostly on patients in unconscious poly-traumatised state. The method is simple, it needs no special equipments, it can be done at any time immediately, it does not incommode the patient, it is an uncomplicated but suitable procedure, and it is a good aid in case of difficulties always arising in connection with blunt closed abdominal injuries. In uncertain cases it helps the indication of the quick surgical interventions and the elimination of the unnecessary laparatomies and, consequently, it leads to better healing. The application of the necessary wash volume is essential. On the basis of the good results the application is recommended in all accident wards and in all surgical sections. The authors are of the opinion that in uncertain cases the favouring of the diagnostic laparatomy and to neglect the aforesaid treatment nowadays is a step-back on the field of the diagnosis of blunt abdominal injuries.