Tyburski et al reported a pulmonary contusion score to evaluate a trauma patient. The authors are from Detroit Receiving Hospital and University Health Center in Michigan.
Patient selection: trauma patient with pulmonary contusions
Examination: chest X-ray, performed on arrival and after 24 hours, with each lung field divided into upper third, middle third and lower third.
Parenchymal changes of contusion involving an entire lung is given 9 points, with involvement of one-ninth of the lung assigned 1 point.
total score =
= SUM(points for both lungs)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 18
• The higher the score the more extensive the pulmonary contusions.
• An increase in the score between admission and 24 hours is associated with increased mechanical ventilation and mortality.
Total Score
Pulmonary Contusions
0
none
1 or 2
mild
3 to 9
moderate
10 to 18
severe
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