Disruption of the iliocolic artery after blunt trauma

Injury to the superior mesenteric artery and branches is an uncommon event, which is typically associated with penetrating injury and high mortality. A case is presented of rupture of a branch of the superior mesenteric artery (iliocolic artery) after blunt trauma. The case illustrates the more occult presentation and better overall prognosis associated with this type of injury as compared with injury to the proximal superior mesenteric artery. In addition this case highlights the importance of vigilance in patients who deteriorate after initial resuscitation.