Pulmonary trauma

Abstract

Pulmonary trauma is common and devastating and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The present review highlights recent literature and case reports in this area. Topics of particular significance or interest include mechanisms of injury, potentially fatal intrathoracic vascular injuries, anesthetic management, fluid management (crystalloids as well as hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solutions), pain management of severe chest trauma, surgical management, and novel methods of diagnosis.