Pneumomediastinum and (bilateral) pneumothorax after high energy trauma: Indications for emergency bronchoscopy

Abstract

High energy trauma may cause injury to tracheobronchial structures. This is sometimes difficult to diagnose immediately. Pneumomediastinum and (bilateral) pneumothorax seen on a CT-scan of the thorax may suggest possible damage to central airways. Emergency bronchoscopy should be performed to detect and locate a possible tracheobronchial injury.

Keywords

• Emergency bronchoscopy
• Tracheobronchial injury
• Trauma
• Pneumothorax
• Pneumomediastinum