Phillips B, et al. – In this work, researchers summarize the evidence supporting the role of trauma pneumonectomy (TP) in the current era and reiterate that despite the associated morbidity and mortality TP is justified in selective cases. In the setting of severe thoracic trauma, pulmonary resection seems necessary. In a stable patient, less aggressive techniques are options; however, in the setting of ongoing hemorrhage, they recommend considering and expediently conducting TP. in these patients, the role of damage control thoracic surgery and related techniques is vitally important to improve the significant mortality of trauma pneumonectomy.

Methods

• Researchers conducted a review of the world's literature following standard guidelines.
• Studies reviewing blunt and penetrating trauma to the lungs in adults (age greater than 15 year) that reported mortality rates and outcome measures were included.

Results

• The PubMed search yielded 713 studies.
• Pertinent information on TP was identified in 14 studies.
• In this review, included studies were published from 1985 to 2017 and involved patient data that was collected from 1972 to 2014.
• Researchers noticed mortality ranging from 50% to 100% (median 63%; mean 68%).