Trauma

Question 1

Indications resuscitative thoracotomy

Answer 1

Accepted indications for EDT
Penetrating thoracic injury with the following conditions:
- Previously witnessed cardiac activity (prehospital or in-hospital)
- Unresponsive hypotension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] 20

Blunt thoracic injury with the following conditions:

• Previously witnessed cardiac activity (prehospital or in-hospital)
• Rapid exsanguination from the chest tube (>1,500 mL immediately returned)
• Unresponsive hypotension (SBP <70 mm Hg) despite vigorous resuscitation