Nonvascular mediastinal trauma

Radiol Clin North Am. 2006 Mar;44(2):251-8, viii. doi: 10.1016/j.rcl.2005.10.001.

Abstract

This article discusses the radiologic and clinical features of nonvascular mediastinal trauma, and focuses on the tracheobronchial tree, the esophagus, and the thoracic duct. Blunt chest and penetrating trauma account for most of the causes of such nonvascular injuries, but iatrogenic and inhalation injuries are other well-known causes. The injury distribution and clinical manifestations are different for each structure. In our combined experience at a level 1 trauma center, the overall prevalence of injury in each organ is low compared with vascular injuries. As such, and given the frequent nonspecific nature of clinical signs and symptoms of nonvascular mediastinal injuries, the diagnosis often is delayed and results in poor treatment outcome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bronchi / injuries
  • Bronchography
  • Esophagus / diagnostic imaging
  • Esophagus / injuries
  • Humans
  • Mediastinum / diagnostic imaging
  • Mediastinum / injuries*
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Thoracic Duct / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Duct / injuries
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Trachea / diagnostic imaging
  • Trachea / injuries
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / diagnosis
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / diagnostic imaging