ABSTRACT
Penetrating rectal trauma is an uncommon presentation, particularly in centres with low rates of trauma, and requires a high index of suspicion to identify and treat. Management of penetrating rectal trauma has evolved over several decades and previously included proximal diversion, distal rectal washout, and presacral drainage as the primary surgical maneuvers to reduce mortality. Recently, a more conservative approach has been adopted, as the applicability of combat experience to the civilian setting has been questioned. In this report, a case of extraperitoneal rectal injury in a patient with multiple gunshot wounds provides a backdrop for literature review and discussion of the modern diagnostic and management approaches to penetrating rectal trauma.
