[Clinical classification of the severity of lung injuries (author's transl)].

The observations made in 651 cases of traumatic lung injuries suggested the advisability of dividing these injuries into three groups according to the severity of the clinical picture. The criterion was the degree of impairment of respiratory function as assessed by repeated gas analyses. By relating function to severity of the clinical picture it was possible not only to institute the appropriate therapeutic measures but also to obtain information regarding the prognosis. Lung injuries in group 2 and 3 require prompt transfer to an intensive care unit with experience in chest surgery before irreversible damage has set in.