emergency department thoracotomy
Also written as: EDT — Emergency Department Thoracotomy
An immediate surgical procedure performed in the emergency department to access the thoracic cavity in critically injured patients.
Full Definition
Emergency department thoracotomy is a last-resort procedure performed in the emergency room for patients with penetrating thoracic trauma or witnessed cardiac arrest following trauma. The procedure involves rapid opening of the chest to allow direct cardiac massage, control of hemorrhage, relief of cardiac tamponade, or cross-clamping of the aorta. It is typically reserved for patients who have lost vital signs but had signs of life within a defined time window, with success rates varying significantly based on mechanism of injury and time to intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from resuscitative thoracotomy, which may be performed in the operating room.
In Context
- "The trauma team performed an emergency department thoracotomy after the patient arrested following a stab wound to the chest." — Emergency medicine case report
- "Indications for emergency department thoracotomy include penetrating thoracic trauma with witnessed cardiac arrest within 15 minutes." — Trauma surgery protocol