Survival following resuscitative thoracotomy for combined left ventricle and left atrium ruptures secondary to blunt trauma

Injury. 2008 Sep;39(9):1089-92. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2008.04.024. Epub 2008 Aug 3.

Abstract

Improvements in pre-hospital care and the development of integrated Trauma Systems have streamlined access for the severely injured to sophisticated, specialist Trauma Centre reception and resuscitation. We describe the initial care of a survivor of combined ruptures of the left ventricle and left atrium secondary to blunt injury. This case emphasises the contribution of such a Trauma System in achieving a favourable outcome for a severely injured trauma patient with injuries previously considered non-survivable.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Appendage / injuries
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Heart Atria / injuries
  • Heart Atria / surgery
  • Heart Injuries / surgery*
  • Heart Ventricles / injuries
  • Humans
  • Lung Injury / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Resuscitation / methods
  • Rupture / surgery
  • Thoracotomy / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / surgery*