Thoracic trauma WSES-AAST guidelines

Abstract

Chest trauma is a common consequence of traumatic events. It may be blunt or penetrating. A low number of patients with blunt chest trauma require surgical intervention; in contrast, penetrating ones frequently require surgery and are associated with higher mortality. Chest trauma due to its anatomical location and to its potential effects on different systems must be multidisciplinary, and emergency and trauma systems should be organized and prepared to face all aspects. The present paper describes the recommendations provided by World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST), about comprehensive management of thoracic trauma.