Der Chirurg; Zeitschrift für alle Gebiete der operativen Medizen
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In trauma patients with chest injuries, serial rib fractures and intrathoracic lacerations, the indication for primary thoracotomy is usually limited to life-threatening organ ruptures. In our own experience with 13 patients, primary thoracotomy offers the chance of immediate closure of lung lacerations, suture of pleural and pericardial tears, ligature of torn intercostal vessels, and stabilization of the chest wall by rib plating. ⋯ Complications and duration of respirator treatment can be reduced. This will reduce the high lethality rates of chest injuries significantly.