Pulmonary Contusion

Blunt lung trauma causes interstitial haemorrhage and oedema and subsequently impaired gas exchange which classically deteriorates over the first 24-48 hours.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors

Pathophysiology

Aetiology

Clinical Manifestations

Diagnostic Approach and DDx

Investigations

Bedside:

Laboratory:

Imaging:

  • CXR
    • Interstitial infiltrates
    • Non-anatomical segment consolidation

Other:

Management

Resuscitation:

ABC approach. Comment on team coordination and clinical priorities. Specific therapy:

  • Pharmacological
  • Procedural
  • Physical

Supportive care:

Disposition:

Preventative:

Marginal and Ineffective Therapies

Anaesthetic Considerations

Complications

Prognosis

Key Studies

References

  1. Bersten, A. D., & Handy, J. M. (2018). Oh’s Intensive Care Manual. Elsevier Gezondheidszorg.