Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
hemothorax
Pronunciation: HEE-mo-thor-acks
Accumulation of blood in the pleural space, often requiring surgical drainage in trauma patients.
Full Definition
Hemothorax is the presence of blood in the pleural cavity, commonly seen in trauma patients with chest injuries or following thoracic surgical procedures. In surgical critical care, massive hemothorax (>1500 mL initial drainage or >200 mL/hour for 4 hours) may require emergency thoracotomy. Management typically involves chest tube placement for drainage and monitoring of ongoing blood loss. Complications include retained clotted blood leading to empyema or restrictive lung disease if not adequately drained.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pneumothorax (air) and pleural effusion (other fluids) in pleural space.
In Context
- "Massive hemothorax with 1800 mL output prompted urgent surgical exploration." — Trauma surgery note
- "Serial chest X-rays showed resolution of the hemothorax after chest tube drainage." — Follow-up assessment
Also known as
pleural hemorrhage
Don't confuse with
pneumothorax
pleural effusion