RESUMO
The emergency department thoracotomy as a ressuscitative measure is a controversial subject in trauma surgery. Indiscriminate indication has occurred due to unclearness upon the real value of this procedure, but further critical evaluation has reduced initial enthusiasm rather emphasizing a more rational approach by systematization of criteria for selective indication. Clinical outcome is related to injury mechanism and patients conditions upon admission. According to vital signs the patients conditions are classified as fatal, agonic and shock; survival rates oscillate between 0 to 40%. This study presents a review of the literature discussing indications, technical aspects, complications and clinical outcome of emergency department thoracotomy in trauma patients.