[Residual lesions after serial fracture of ribs (author's transl)].

Follow-up examinations at regular intervals to recognize trauma-induced lesions are as essential for persons who have suffered a chest trauma as they are for cases of injury to the limbs. A classification into three groups according to the number of broken ribs relates satisfactorily with thoraco-pulmonary complications and residual damage. Injuries in group 1 leave practically no permanent damage; in group 2 they are apt to be followed by residual respiratory impairment while in group 3 the likelihood of permanent impairment of lung function is very high.

[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.