diagnostic peritoneal aspirate
Also written as: DPA — Diagnostic Peritoneal Aspirate
A procedure involving insertion of a catheter into the peritoneal cavity to sample fluid for diagnostic purposes in trauma patients.
Full Definition
Diagnostic peritoneal aspirate (DPA) is a simplified version of diagnostic peritoneal lavage that involves placing a catheter into the peritoneal cavity and aspirating any free fluid present for analysis. Unlike full diagnostic peritoneal lavage, no saline irrigation is performed. The procedure is used in trauma patients when other diagnostic modalities are unavailable or inconclusive. Gross blood return indicates significant intra-abdominal bleeding requiring surgical exploration. DPA has largely been superseded by FAST examination and CT scanning in most trauma centers due to these modalities being non-invasive and more readily available. The procedure requires sterile technique and careful attention to anatomical landmarks to avoid injury to underlying structures.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL), which involves saline irrigation. DPA has been largely replaced by FAST and CT in modern practice.
In Context
- "When FAST examination was inconclusive, the team performed a diagnostic peritoneal aspirate which returned grossly bloody fluid." — Emergency department procedure note
- "Diagnostic peritoneal aspirate may be considered when CT scanning is unavailable and clinical assessment is equivocal." — Trauma surgery guidelines