[Pneumoperitoneum in polytraumatized patients without perforated hollow viscera].

Bowel and mesenteric injuries from blunt abdominal trauma are infrequent and difficult to diagnose. A finding of pneumoperitoneum on computed tomography is useful, although not specific. In associated blunt chest trauma gas can reach the peritoneal cavity through congenital or post-traumatic diaphragmatic interruptions. Two cases of pneumoperitoneum following associated blunt chest and abdominal trauma are reported. In both patients laparotomy did not show bowel perforation and conservative treatment could have been provided.