Sonographic detection of pneumothorax and hemothorax in microgravity.

Introduction: An intrathoracic injury may be disastrous to a crew-member aboard the International Space Station (ISS) if the diagnosis is missed or delayed. Symptomatic or clinically suspicious thoracic trauma is treated as a surgical emergency on Earth, usually with immediate stabilization and rapid transport to a facility that is able to deliver the appropriate medical care. A similar approach is planned for the ISS; however, an unnecessary evacuation would cause a significant mission impact and an exorbitant expense.