[Early thoracotomy and chest wall stabilization with elastic rib clamps (author's transl)].

In patients with chest injuries, serial rib fractures and intrathoracic lacerations the indication for primary thoracotomy is usually limited to life-threatening organ ruptures. In our own experience with 18 patients primary thoracotomy offers the chance of immediate closure of lung lacerations, suture of pleural and pericardial tears, ligature of torn intercostal vessels and stabilization of the chest wall by elastic rib clamps "Essener Model". Postoperative respiration, freedom of pain, is restored immediately and therefore complications and duration of high-risk respirator treatment can be reduced.