ICU-USA

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.

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