Patients who sustain injuries to the abdomen are typically evaluated by general surgeons who have special training in the evaluation and management of trauma. Typical examples of such injuries include auto accidents, falls from heights, and gun shot or stab wounds.  If there is obvious evidence of injury to the bowels, an emergency operation is performed.  Many patients can be simply monitored closely without surgery, even in cases where there is some bleeding from the liver or spleen.  A variety of radiologic tests are available to help in assessing the internal injuries, including regular X-rays, CAT scans, ultrasounds, and dye studies.