Spleen Rupture: A Serious Injury That Can Happen in Car Accidents

Key Points:

• A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency that can happen as the result of forceful trauma such as might happen in a car accident
• Symptoms of a ruptured spleen can vary from person to person
• Treatment for a ruptured spleen may include surgery or medication
• The cost of treatment for a ruptured spleen can vary depending on the severity of the injury
• You may need the help of an attorney to make an insurance claim to cover the costs of an accident-related ruptured spleen.

Table of Contents

What is a Ruptured Spleen?

The spleen is an organ in the upper left abdomen that helps the body fight infection. A ruptured spleen is a serious injury that can happen when the spleen is damaged or torn. It can be ruptured by trauma, such as a car accident, a fall, or a blow to the abdomen. An enlarged spleen, which happens when the spleen has been previously injured or damaged by disease, can also rupture more easily. When it is ruptured, it can cause internal bleeding and shock. 

How Can Ruptured Spleen Happen?

Here are some of the most common causes of a ruptured spleen:

• Car accidents: Car accidents are the most common cause of ruptured spleens. When a car crashes, the force of the impact can cause the spleen to be damaged or torn. This can lead to internal bleeding and shock. 
• Falls: Falls can also cause a ruptured spleen, especially if the person lands on their abdomen.
• Blunt force trauma: Any type of blunt force trauma to the abdomen, such as being punched or kicked, can also cause a ruptured spleen.
• Sports injuries: Sports injuries are another common cause of ruptured spleens. This is especially true for contact sports, such as football and hockey.
• Enlarged spleen: An enlarged spleen is more likely to rupture than a normal-sized spleen. This enlargement can be caused by a number of things, including previous injury, infections, liver disease, and blood cancers.

What are the Symptoms of a Ruptured Spleen? 

Symptoms of a ruptured spleen include but are not limited to the following:

• Pain in the upper left abdomen
• Pain when the area is touched or pressure is applied
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness

If you think you may have a ruptured spleen, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you are treated, the better your chances of a full recovery.

How is a Ruptured Spleen Diagnosed?

A ruptured spleen is diagnosed by a doctor through a physical exam and medical tests. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. He or she will also perform a physical exam to check for tenderness in the upper left abdomen.

The doctor may also order medical tests to confirm the diagnosis of a ruptured spleen. These tests may include:

• Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to check for signs of internal bleeding, such as low blood count and elevated white blood cell count.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, can be used to see if the spleen is damaged or torn.

How is a Ruptured Spleen Treated?

Once a ruptured spleen is diagnosed, the treatment will depend on the severity of the injury. In some cases, the spleen can be repaired with surgery. In other cases, the spleen may need to be removed by surgical procedures.

If your spleen must be removed, your body will still be able to fight infection. However, you will be at a higher risk of certain types of infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis. You will also need to get vaccinated against certain types of infections, such as Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and meningococcal meningitis. Most people who have their spleens removed live normal, healthy lives. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself from infection.

If the spleen is repaired, the patient will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. They will also need to follow up with their doctor regularly to make sure the spleen is healing properly. Most people who have a ruptured spleen make a full recovery. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as infection or bleeding.

How Much Compensation is Common for a Ruptured Spleen?

The amount of compensation that someone with a ruptured spleen can receive from a car accident insurance claim will vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. However, in general, people who have suffered a ruptured spleen in a car accident and/or due to the negligence of another party may be able to recover damages for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

Some of the factors that may affect the amount of compensation that someone with a ruptured spleen can receive include:

• The severity of the injury
• The length of time it takes to recover
• The extent of the medical expenses
• The amount of income lost during recovery
• The pain and suffering
• Any other related costs or quality of life impacts

If you have suffered a ruptured spleen in a car accident or due to the negligence of another party, you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney in order to discuss your legal options.

• A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options
• A lawyer can help you gather the evidence necessary to support your claim
• A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf
• A lawyer can represent you in court in the unlikely event the matter goes to court

If you have suffered a ruptured spleen, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today to learn more about your legal rights and options.