Isolated traumatic duodenal rupture due to bicycle handlebar injury in an adult patient

Abstract

Because of the well-developed abdominal musculature, the possibility of injury of the retroperitoneal organs such as the duodenum is not as high as that in children. Adult cases of isolated traumatic duodenal rupture caused by bicycle handlebar injury are extremely rare. We report a patient who experienced persistent abdominal pain after having a bicycle handlebar injury. Since the injury is hard to identify, abdominal computed tomography is performed to confirm the diagnosis. We also present a management flow chart to help physicians managing handlebar injuries in adults.