Efficacy of steroids in the treatment of lung contusion.

Haemodynamic, metabolic and clinical data were recorded in patients suffering from lung contusion following blunt chest trauma. The effects of large doses of methylprednisolone (30 mg per kg b.w.) were studied in 10 patients selected at random, and compared with 10 patients receiving no steroids, but who otherwise were treated in the same way. Serious post-traumatic complications were reduced in the steroid group. The beneficial effect of the steroid treatment seemed to be associated with a significant reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance, which may lead to a better tissue perfusion and a reduction of right heart work.