Thoracic Trauma

Thoracic trauma is an injury to the thoracic cavity, the area of the body located between the neck and abdomen. It is generally caused by blunt or penetrating trauma and is potentially life-threatening due to the chest's essential organs (heart and lungs). Thoracic trauma can cause air to leak into the chest cavity, which can lead to a collapsed lung. Fractures, chest wall injury and damage to important organs can also occur. Treatment may include chest tube insertion, surgical repair or interventional radiology. Proper management and treatment of thoracic trauma is important for restoring normal chest anatomy and function, as well as preserving quality of life.