[The treatment of pneumothorax and hemothorax in multiple rib fractures and associated trauma]

The results of treatment of 480 sufferers with multiple costal fractures and associated trauma to the chest were analysed. Resulting from trauma, 55 (25.5%) patients developed pneumothorax, 71 (32.8%)--hemothorax, 90 (41.7%)--hemopneumothorax. Treatment of pneumo- and hemothorax in most cases was conservative (puncture of the pleural cavity was usually performed, rarely--its drainage). In 47 sufferers with associated trauma who were at a forced position (lying on their back), the aimed catheterization of the pleural cavity by means of the trocar stilette curved under the angle of 60 degrees was used. For the treatment of clotted hemothorax, the streptokinase was used with a positive effect noted in 6 of 7 patients. Indications for thoracotomy are restricted in patients with associated chest trauma in presence of shock and acute blood loss.