An emergent thoracotomy, as the name suggests, is an emergency procedure performed to temporize wounds and stabilize a patient via direct control of intrathoracic injuries, decompression of pericardial tamponade, and control of the aorta to prevent exsanguination until a more definite intervention can be provided. Emergency room thoracotomy can be life-saving for certain patient populations. However, it cannot be performed in isolation; a unified, focused team is necessary. The team must comprise adequately trained doctors and/or trauma surgeons, nurses, assistants, and technicians.
Hence, it is critical that such teams be prepared in advance, which can promptly identify patients suitable for emergent thoracotomy and deliver the same to them. Test your knowledge with this interesting question on emergent thoracotomy! Source: J Trauma Acute Care Surg
