[Chest trauma: a report of 596 cases]

The study presented 596 cases with chest injuries, experienced for 4 years in our trauma and critical care center. Cases with chest injuries account for approximately 40% of all traumatized patients. Cases dead on arrival (DOA) show more significant frequency (87% of all traumatized DOA patients). To grasp the significance and the severity of chest injuries, we designed a new classification by the site where abnormality exists; 1) the chest wall, 2) the pleural cavity, 3) the airway, 4) the mediastinum, 5) the intrapericardial space, and 6) cardiac function. An application of the classification may clearly identify the initial direction for the treatment of chest injuries, including some examination which should be given priority. It is also suspected that a more exact decision making should be possible by an utilization of the classification.