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resuscitative thoracotomy
Emergency chest surgery performed to access the heart and major vessels in critically injured patients.
Full Definition
Resuscitative thoracotomy is an emergency surgical procedure performed in the trauma bay or operating room to gain rapid access to the thoracic cavity. This procedure is typically performed on patients in cardiac arrest or near-arrest from thoracic trauma. The technique involves opening the chest to allow direct cardiac massage, cross-clamping of the aorta, or repair of cardiac injuries. In medical documentation, this procedure represents one of the most aggressive interventions in trauma care.
Usage
Usage note: Distinct from routine thoracotomy - the 'resuscitative' qualifier indicates emergency, life-saving context.
In Context
- "A resuscitative thoracotomy was performed in the trauma bay due to loss of vital signs." — Emergency medicine documentation
- "The patient underwent resuscitative thoracotomy for penetrating cardiac injury." — Operative report
Also known as
emergency thoracotomy
trauma thoracotomy
Don't confuse with
thoracostomy
thoracentesis