Chest trauma

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Chest Trauma

Chest trauma (/ˈtʃɛst ˈtrɔːmə/), also known as thoracic trauma, refers to any form of physical injury to the chest including the heart, lungs, and the ribs. The term is derived from the Greek words "thorax" meaning "chest" and "trauma" meaning "wound".

Types of Chest Trauma

Chest trauma can be classified into two types: blunt trauma and penetrating trauma.

  • Blunt trauma (/blʌnt ˈtrɔːmə/) is a non-penetrating traumatic injury to the chest. It is often caused by physical impacts to the chest, such as those experienced in vehicle accidents or falls.
  • Penetrating trauma (/pɛnɪˌtreɪtɪŋ ˈtrɔːmə/) is a traumatic injury that occurs when a foreign object pierces the chest, potentially damaging the organs inside. This can be caused by gunshot wounds, stabbings, or other sharp objects.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of chest trauma can include pain, difficulty breathing, and visible injuries to the chest. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may also include imaging tests such as an X-ray or CT scan.

Treatment

Treatment for chest trauma depends on the severity and type of injury. It may involve surgery, pain management, and other supportive care. In some cases, a procedure known as a thoracotomy may be performed to repair damage to the chest and its internal organs.

Related Terms

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