Penetrating Chest Trauma

Excerpt

Chest trauma has quickly risen to be the second most common traumatic injury in non-intentional trauma. Trauma to the chest is also associated with the highest mortality; in some studies, up to 60% depending on the mechanism of injury. While penetrating chest trauma is less common than blunt trauma, it can be more deadly. Quick thinking and early interventions are key factors for evaluations, management, and survival.