Diagnosis and treatment of severe pulmonary contusion in 132 cases / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary contusion. Methods A retrospective study was carried out in 132 cases of severe pulmonary contusion (injury severity score ≥20) from February 1993 to December 2003. Results Of all, 107 cases (81.1%)survived and 25 (18.9%)died. Conclusions Chest X-ray and CT are reliable for the diagnosis of pulmonary contusion. The important methods include keeping airway clear, progressively treating shock and reasonably applying ventilation, steroids as well as antibiotics. The early diagnosis and the prompt treatment of the associated injuries are key to higher cure rate.