Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Hemothorax Management involves blood accumulation in the pleural space from intercostal vessel, pulmonary parenchymal, or great vessel injury. Massive hemothorax: >1500mL or >200mL/hr for 2-4h. Chest tube (32-36Fr) insertion at 4th-5th intercostal space, anterior axillary line. Autotransfusion for massive hemothorax. Thoracotomy indications: >1500mL initial output, >200mL/hr for 2-4h, hemodynamic instability despite resuscitation.