Complete duodenal transection in blunt trauma

A case of complete transection of the first portion of the duodenum at the pyloroduodenal junction due to blunt trauma is presented. The diagnosis and treatment of this injury and injuries to other portions of the duodenum are discussed. This is the third case of complete transection of the duodenum due to blunt abdominal trauma and the first case located at the pyloroduodenal junction reported in the American literature. Emphasis is placed on early diagnosis and early operative intervention with the choice of operative management individualized according to the site of injury.