Penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma

Penetrating injuries to the thoracoabdominal region represent a complex and diverse population of injuries. The clinician managing such cases must be able to consider all potential injuries, rapidly recognize life-threatening sequelae, and precisely diagnose and quickly manage these patients. The diverse nature of some of the potential presentations of patients with penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma is discussed. The most recent advances and controversies involving the evaluation and management of patients with penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma are also discussed.