Thoracic Trauma, Nonaortic Injuries

Abstract

Trauma is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Approximately two-thirds of trauma patients have thoracic injuries. Nonvascular injury to the chest is most common; however, while vascular injuries to the chest make up a small minority of injuries in thoracic trauma, these injuries are most likely to require intervention by interventional radiology (IR). IR plays a vital role, with much to offer, in the evaluation and management of patients with both vascular and nonvascular thoracic trauma; in many cases, IR treatments obviate the need for these patients to go to the operating room. This article reviews the role of IR in the treatment of vascular an nonvascular traumatic thoracic injuries.

Massive haemothorax and haemorrhagic shock due to cervical vascular injury caused by a seat belt

“…IR for a haemothorax due to an intercostal artery injury has been indicated in cases showing drainage of more than 200 mL/hour from the thoracic drain, contrast leakage on contrast-enhanced CT or active bleeding at the site of injury 13. The effectiveness of IR has been demonstrated for a haemothorax due to an intercostal artery injury14 and for other vascular injuries in thoracic trauma 15. However, some reports have recommended early treatment with VATS 6 16.…”