Chest Trauma: Nonvascular Injuries

In the setting of trauma, thoracic injuries are third in frequency after injuries to the head and extremities. While the greatest source of mortality in the setting of thoracic trauma is vascular injury, nonvascular injuries are much more common and can result in substantial morbidity and mortality, complicating overall case management. This section will focus on non vascular injuries that may be seen in the setting of trauma involving the lungs, diaphragm, mediastinum, thoracic skeleton, heart and pleura. Findings in both blunt and penetrating trauma will be highlighted.