Duodenal transection in a battered child: a case report.

A case of severe duodenal injury following child abuse is presented. Perforating duodenal injuries are seldom seen after blunt abdominal trauma. A high energy force directed to the center of the upper abdomen may result in disruption of the duodenum. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary to improve the outcome. Most children indeed are seen too late and in septic shock because of neglect.