Hemothorax

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Introduction

Hemothorax, or blood in the pleural space.

 

 

 

The Case of...

a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.

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Causes and Risk Factors

The most common causes in trauma include:

• chest wall
• lung
• pulmonary vessels

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Pathophysiology

 

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Signs and Symptoms

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Investigations

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Differential Diagnosis

 

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Treatments

Chest tube must be placed.

Surgery if:

• greater than 1.5L
• ongoing bleeding
• undrained blood

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Consequences and Course

Undrained blood risks infection.

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Resources and References

 

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Topic Development

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