Two major types of abdominal trauma occur: penetrating and blunt. In either case, early evaluation by a surgeon is essential. Penetrating trauma requires surgical evaluation of all abdominal wounds. Blunt trauma may cause occult intra-abdominal damage, so this must be strongly suspected following significant blunt trauma to the abdomen. Diagnosis is often difficult due to subtle signs, so an aggressive diagnostic approach is warranted, including peritoneal lavage. Management involves optimizing the patient's condition while maintaining a high index of suspicion for intra-abdominal injuries through repeated examinations.