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Rupture of the thoracic trachea and main bronchi after blunt external trauma


J.J. de Wet Lubbe
P.M. Barnard
M.A. de Kock

Abstract

Over a 30-month period, July 1970 - December 1972, 136 patients with multiple rib fractures and other chest injuries were treated in the Lung Unit at the Karl Bremer Hospital. Of these, 2 patients presented with complete avulsion of the right main stem bronchus at the level of the carina. A third patient sustained a tear of the trachea after being kicked on the sternum. In one case the trachea itself, as well as the left main bronchus, was involved in the tear. The diagnosis was made at bronchoscopy and immediate suture repair was undertaken in 2 patients. The patient with the tracheal tear presented late and was treated conservatively. All 3 patients made a complete recovery. The literature on this type of injury is reviewed and recommendations are made regarding early diagnosis and treatment.

S. Afr. Med. J., 48, 1430 (1974).

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eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574