EARLY EVACUATION OF CLOTTED BLOOD IN HEMOTHORAX USING THORACOSCOPY

Abstract

Hemothorax complicated by clotting of the blood is traditionally treated with thoracotomy. Successful treatment using early thoracoscopy in two patients is described. A third patient, in whom thoracoscopic evacuation failed, is also discussed. Early timing of the procedure appears to enhance the opportunity for adequate drainage of the thorax with lung re-expansion.