[Current problems in thoracic injuries].

The authors stress the increased frequency in the recent years of single thoracic trauma and of thoracic trauma in the frame of polytraumatic lesions. The fact is stressed that the severity of thoracic trauma is usually determined by pathophysiological syndromes generated sometimes by minor anatomical lesions. An original classification is presented, of thoracic trauma, the present etiopathogenetic concept is discussed, as well as pathophysiologic syndromes consecutive to thoracic trauma. The major types of lesions are illustrated by clinical cases. The treatment of thoracic trauma should respect in the first place the principle of re-equilibration of vital functions that have been disturbed. Only after this has been achieved integrity of the anatomic structures of the organs involved should be attempted. Surgical indications are justified only if the anatomical lesions are the origin of a cardio-respiratory imbalance that cannot be eliminated but by surgical procedures. An original procedure is presented, that of Prof. C. Coman, which achieves immobilization of the flaps with the aid of blades, and the advantages of this system are stressed.