title: Chest trauma.
abstract: Direct or secondary injury to the organs in the chest not only present the physician with a structural problem but will set up a situation where his knowledge of cardiopulmonary physiology is tested. Although major operative repair is usually not needed, procrastination and failure to meticulously treat even what appears to be a minor injury may result in rapid death or prolonged morbidity.
mesh_terms: D001013:Aorta, Thoracic / Q000293:injuries; D002305:Cardiac Tamponade / Q000175:diagnosis; D003964:Diaphragm / Q000293:injuries; D004947:Esophagus / Q000293:injuries; D006335:Heart Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis; D006439:Hemodynamics; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000503:physiopathology; D055370:Lung Injury; D012151:Resuscitation; D012253:Rib Fractures / Q000175:diagnosis; D013249:Sternum / Q000293:injuries; D013898:Thoracic Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D014692:Ventilation-Perfusion Ratio