Thoracic packing in thoracic emergencies

Abstract

Damage control is defined as an approach with 3 stages in patients with life-threatening injuries. Stage I: abbreviated laparotomy for hemorrhage and contamination control. Stage II: intensive care management to correct physiologic abnormalities; and stage III: definitive repair of injuries. Thoracic packing, an adaptation of abdominal packing, was described as a temporary procedure for hemostatic control. The aim of this study is to report our experience with thoracic packing and show its usefulness in thoracic damage control surgery. Traumatic chest injuries vary from minor trauma to life-threatening injuries. The decision to perform thoracic packing is made during the contact with a critically ill patient. In conclusion, packing is effective for bleeding control in critically ill patients who are not suitable for definitive treatment.