Traumatic transection of the thoracic trachea.

Thoracic tracheobronchial rupture is rare in this country. Transection of the thoracic trachea is the least common of such injuries. Patients may present acutely, within hours of the accident, or after a delay of some weeks. Spreading subcutaneous emphysema or a persistent pneumothorax despite an intercostal drain are highly suggestive of the condition. Bronchoscopy provides the diagnosis. Early surgery produces good results in the absence of associated injuries. The purpose of this report is to bring the diagnosis to the attention of people involved in the immediate care of patients after major accidents. Bronchoscopy should be performed in all cases of major thoracic trauma.