[Penetrating gunshot wounds of the chest: the surgical procedure and treatment times and outcomes].

On the basis of data obtained during the war in Afghanistan the article analyses surgical management and the results of treatment in three groups of patients with chest wounds. The authors consider that the efficiency of treatment could be improved by gaining time during evacuation period and providing the earliest surgical care to the wounded. Indications and peculiarities for various surgical interventions were ascertained depending on the character of trauma and subsequent pathological disorders. The article proves the necessity of preventive sanitation of pleural cavity, gives the data concerning the period and outcome of treatment.