Pulmonary contusion overview: Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
A pulmonary contusion (or lung contusion) is a contusion ([[bruise]]) of the [[lung]], caused by [[chest trauma]]. As a result of damage to [[capillary|capillaries]], blood and other fluids accumulate in the lung tissue. The excess fluid interferes with [[gas exchange]], potentially leading to inadequate oxygen levels ([[hypoxia (medical)|hypoxia]]). Unlike [[pulmonary laceration]], another type of lung injury, pulmonary contusion does not involve a cut or tear of the lung tissue. | A pulmonary contusion (or lung contusion) is a contusion ([[bruise]]) of the [[lung]], caused by [[chest trauma]]. As a result of damage to [[capillary|capillaries]], blood and other fluids accumulate in the lung tissue. The excess fluid interferes with [[gas exchange]], potentially leading to inadequate oxygen levels ([[hypoxia (medical)|hypoxia]]). Unlike [[pulmonary laceration]], another type of lung injury, pulmonary contusion does not involve a cut or tear of the lung tissue. | ||
==Pathophysiology== | |||
A pulmonary contusion usually is caused by [[blunt trauma]] but also is caused by explosions or a [[shock wave]] associated with [[penetrating trauma]]. With the use of explosives during World Wars I and II, pulmonary contusion resulting from blasts gained recognition. In the 1960s its occurrence began to receive wider recognition in civilians, for whom it is usually caused by traffic accidents. The use of seat belts and airbags reduces the risk to vehicle occupants. | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Revision as of 17:59, 5 April 2013
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
A pulmonary contusion (or lung contusion) is a contusion (bruise) of the lung, caused by chest trauma. As a result of damage to capillaries, blood and other fluids accumulate in the lung tissue. The excess fluid interferes with gas exchange, potentially leading to inadequate oxygen levels (hypoxia). Unlike pulmonary laceration, another type of lung injury, pulmonary contusion does not involve a cut or tear of the lung tissue.
Pathophysiology
A pulmonary contusion usually is caused by blunt trauma but also is caused by explosions or a shock wave associated with penetrating trauma. With the use of explosives during World Wars I and II, pulmonary contusion resulting from blasts gained recognition. In the 1960s its occurrence began to receive wider recognition in civilians, for whom it is usually caused by traffic accidents. The use of seat belts and airbags reduces the risk to vehicle occupants.