ABSTRACT
This chapter provides information for performing diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL). It begins with a case scenario of a 32-year-old man admitted following motor vehicle trauma. The old man has a history significant for known contrast allergy and is found to have a small amount of free fluidon abdominal ultrasound examination. The chapter then includes details on indications, contraindications, and information about supplies and technique. Pearls and pitfalls are also incorporated, providing additional insights and practical advice not always available in other textbooks or articles. A DPL specimen is considered positive with the following findings: amylase >175, red blood cell count >100,000/μl, or white cell count >500/μl. The presence of ascites can confound laboratory evaluation of a DPL specimen.
