Stable Penetrating Chest Trauma

Annotation for Point M

Isolated intrathoracic tracheobronchial injuries are uncommon. When they occur, it is usually in the setting of stab wounds. Small injuries without tissue loss and in the absence of ongoing air leak can be managed nonoperatively. Most thoracic tracheal injuries are approached via right posterolateral fourth intercostal thoracotomy, and generally simple repair is sufficient. Usually, simple interrupted absorbable 4-0 sutures are sufficient. Occasionally, the presence of combined great vessel and tracheal injury mandates a transsternal approach.