What is the primary concern associated with an unstable liver clot?

The primary concern associated with an unstable liver clot is excessive bleeding. In cases where there is trauma to the liver or a disruption of the liver's blood supply, the formation of a clot is crucial to prevent ongoing hemorrhage. However, if that clot is unstable—meaning it has not genuinely formed a solid structure or if it is prone to dislodging—there is a significant risk that it could break apart. This results in a scenario where bleeding can resume or increase, leading to serious complications such as hypovolemic shock, which can be life-threatening.

While foul odor from the wound, loss of function, and changes in skin color are important considerations in the assessment of liver injuries, they do not present the immediate life-threatening urgency associated with excessive bleeding from an unstable liver clot, making it the primary concern.