In the stab wound scenario, which combination of organs is most at risk for injury?

• A. Brain injury
• B. Fractured liver and ruptured spleen
• C. Kidney damage
• D. Stomach perforation

Answer: (B)

Abdominal stab wounds commonly threaten large, vascular solid organs within the peritoneal cavity. The liver, occupying much of the right upper quadrant, and the spleen, located in the left upper quadrant, are both large, highly perfused organs. A penetrating injury in this region can easily damage one or both, leading to significant hemorrhage. Brain injury would require head trauma, not an abdominal stab wound. Kidneys are retroperitoneal and somewhat protected, so they’re less likely to be injured in a typical abdominal stab. The stomach can perforate, but injuries to the liver and spleen are more probable with upper abdominal penetration. Therefore, the combination most at risk is injury to the liver and spleen.