DPL
Also written as: DPL — diagnostic peritoneal lavage
Diagnostic peritoneal lavage - a procedure to detect intra-abdominal bleeding in trauma patients.
Full Definition
Diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) is a surgical procedure used to evaluate for intra-abdominal injury in trauma patients. The procedure involves making a small incision below the umbilicus, inserting a catheter into the peritoneal cavity, and instilling saline solution which is then drained and analyzed for blood, bacteria, or other signs of organ injury. While largely replaced by CT scanning, DPL remains relevant in certain clinical scenarios and appears in historical trauma documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always write out 'diagnostic peritoneal lavage' on first use, then abbreviate as DPL.
In Context
- "DPL was performed to rule out intra-abdominal hemorrhage." — Emergency procedure note
- "The trauma team elected to proceed with DPL given the patient's hemodynamic instability." — Trauma documentation