Blunt chest trauma

Principles

• Initial
• I will approach the patient in line with ATLS protocol and BOAST guideline 15
• MDT approach
• Early contrast CT with 3d rendering if ribs fractured
• Should have guideline for insertion, management nd removal of chest drain include site , technique and antibiotic prophylaxis
• Persistent air leak should be discussed with CVTS

Theatre

• Surgical stabilisation if
  • Flail chest
  • respiratory compromise
  • pain control cannot be achieved
• Should be done with in 48 hours of decision to operate

Post operative

• Continued care from surgical, pain and physic teams under rehab consultant
• TRAN and audit