Abstract
The problem of hemothorax has been presented from the standpoint of its pathology and management. The results of the experiences encountered in this war have cleared some doubt and uncertainty in regard to treatment and have offered many of us an opportunity to observe the pathology of hemothorax. The mortality and morbidity of chest wounds in this war has been greatly improved in this war by: (1) Excellent early primary surgery in the hospitals in the combat zone; (2) the availability of excellent endotracheal anesthesia; (3) the abundance of the chemotherapeutic agents penicillin and sulfanilamide; (4) the abundance and availability of blood and plasma; (5) the recognition of the value of postoperative endotracheal and bronchoscopic suction. Active treatment after careful evaluation, in the form of chest aspirations appears to give the best results as compared to conservative treatment. In the case in which bleeding continues a thoracotomy is indicated. In cases of large clotted hemothorax, thoracotomy and decortication offers a prompt return to a normal anatomical and physiological restoration of the involved lung.
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