Hilar Control in Penetrating Chest Trauma: A Simplified Approach to an Underutilized Maneuver

Abstract

To decrease morbidity and mortality at our institution, a method of pulmonary hilar control has evolved using an organized, "hand-over-hand" approach that controls hemorrhage, prevents fatal air embolism, protects against blood spillage into contralateral airways, and facilitates pulmonary surgery. Several features distinguish our approach from those previously reported.