Background/Aim. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) characterized by
speed and precision is increasingly accessible in emergency wards. The aim of
our study was to determine the most common injuries to the chest region, as
well as type associated extrathoracic injuries, and the treatment outcome.
Methods. This prospective study included 61 patients with blunt trauma who
were submitted to computed tomography (CT) of the thorax. The number of
injuries was evaluated by organs and organ systems of the chest. The cause of
the injury, the length and the outcome of the treatment, and the presence of
injuries in other regions were assessed. Results. Chest injuries were
associated with injuries to other regions in 80.3% cases, predominantly
injuries to extremities or pelvic bones in 54.1% cases, followed by head
injuries in 39.3% patients. Associated thoracic injuries were present in
90.9% of patients with lethal outcome. Lung parenchymal lesions, pleural
effusions and rib fractures were the most common injuries affecting 77.1%,
65.6% and 63.9% of the cases, respectively. Conclusion. Blunt chest trauma is
a significant problem affecting predominantly males in their forties and it
is usually caused by a motor vehicle accident. In case of pneumomediastinum
or mediastinal haematoma, the use of 3D reconstructions is advised for
diagnosing possible tracheobronchial ruptures and thoracic aorta injuries.
Increased resolution of CT scanners yielded a large number of findings that
are occult on radiography, especially in the event of lung parenchymal and
pleural injuries. However, none imaging modality can replace surgical
judgement.
Fetal closed head injuries following maternal motor vehicle accident
