Hemothorax
|
| Definition |
A hemothorax is the collection of
blood in the pleural space (the space around the lung).
|
| Causes |
The most common causes of a
hemothorax are traumatic injury to the chest and broken ribs.
Patients may develop a hemothorax after surgery involving the chest.
Patients who have a tendency to bleed or are receiving blood
thinners may be at increased risk to develop a hemothorax.
|
| Treatment |
The treatment of the hemothorax
will depend on the patient's condition and the amount of the
hemothorax. Some patients need a chest tube to drain the hemothorax
and others may need surgery in addition to the chest tube. Patients
may also require blood transfusions depending on the amount of
bleeding.
|
| Comments |
A hemothorax is relatively common
after injury or trauma to the chest. The doctors will follow this
condition very closely and most patients require some form of
treatment for this condition.
|
| Related
Links |
National Library of Medicine
The National Library of Medicine describes hemothorax and its
treatment.
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ICU Medical Conditions 
