IMPROVING THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH THORACOABDOMINAL TRAUMA

Abstract

The incidence of diagnostic thoracotomies and laparotomies remains rather high, with the incidence of diagnostic laparotomies ranging from 24.9% to 33.5%, according to several authors. Moreover, in 30% of cases the penetrating abdominal wounds are not accompanied by internal organ damage. Still the incidence of unwarranted thoracotomies in peacetime chest injuries is at least 12-14%. Unwarranted surgery can often lead to a breakdown of the body's compensatory capacity and subsequent death.