This volume is a "how-to guide" to treating thoracic trauma and emergencies for acute care surgeons. It highlights the diagnosis and management of thoracic disease and injuries, and each chapter includes algorithms that lead readers through the process of identifying and treating many common and some uncommon thoracic pathologies. The international team of authors provides readers with a unique and diverse approach to the operative and non-operative challenges encountered by ACS surgeons. The large number of figures offers readers insights into what they can expect to see when caring for these patients. The editors understand that the management of adults and children differ and have included a specific chapter on pediatrics. Given the broad audience and diverse settings in which the text can be used, the authors also provide details of care in limited-resource environments. The volume is a valuable tool for professionals interested in thoracic surgery and acute care surgery.

Low Resource Environments

Section 1. Acute Surgery Thoracic Emergencies
Esophageal Rupture
Incarcerated Hiatal Hernia
Pulmonary Embolism
Empyema and Effusions
Pericarditis and Effusions
Necrotizing Lung Infections
Lung Mass
Chylothorax
Section 2. Trauma
Rib Fractures/Chest Wall
Pneumothorax and Hemothorax
Pulmonary Contusions and ARDS
Tracheal and Bronchial Injury
Lung Injury
Cardiac Injury
Aortic Injury
Thoracic Vascular Trauma
Diaphragm
Section 3. Special Considerations
Acute Care Pediatric Thoracic Surgical Conditions
Surgical Consideration of Bacteria, Fungi and Parasites
Travel and Transport.