Time to resolution of radiologically detected hemothorax in trauma patients: A retrospective observational study

Figure 1  Flowchart of hemothorax management: Classification based on laterality, clearance time, and outcomes.

Figure 2 Image of hemothorax and chest tube. A: Initial computed tomography (CT) scan of a polytrauma patient with right hemothorax; B: Chest X-ray post-CT scan-chest tube was inserted with a resolution of hemothorax.

Figure 3 Chest X-ray and computed tomography of hemothorax. A: Initial chest X-ray in trauma room showing left hemothorax; B: Computed tomography (CT) scan showing mild to moderate left-sided pleural effusion with underlying consolidation and contusion in the lingula and left lower lobe; C: Left chest tube insertion post CT scan; D: After a 1-week X-Ray chest showing left chest tube was removed, however a small left hemothorax with the pleural thickening remains detected. Lungs are clear.

Figure 4 Images of bilateral hemothorax and its clearance. A: Initial computed tomography scan on admission showing bilateral hemothorax with segmental compression atelectasis; B: Follow up after 1 month-chest X-Ray costophrenic angles are clear (without chest tube insertion). It shows also thoracic spine fixation.