Hemothorax

Treatment:

The objective of treatment is to stabilize the condition of the affected person, stop the bleeding, and remove the blood in the pleural space. A chest tube is inserted through the chest wall to drain the blood, and it is left in place for several days to reexpand the lung. The cause of the hemothorax should be treated. Frequently surgery is indicated because of the nature of injury sustained by trauma.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends upon the underlying cause of the hemothorax.

Complications:

• shock
• fibrosis or scarring of the pleural membranes

Calling your health care provider:

Call 911 for any penetrating or serious blunt injury to the chest, or if moderate chest pain or shortness of breath occur.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if severe chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, absent breathing, and/or other symptoms of hemothorax occur.