Damage control for blunt hepatic trauma: case presentation and historical review.

A 15-year old female with a Grade V liver injury from blunt trauma underwent therapeutic packing for uncontrolled hemorrhage. Pack removal in 72 hours following transfer to a major trauma center showed complete hemostasis. Six years later, CT scans revealed minimal liver sequella. Damage control surgery with initial therapeutic packing in blunt hepatic trauma is a valuable option for the community surgeon.