The role of thoracic epidural analgesia in the management of blunt chest injuries in a resource-poor setting: A case report

Abstract

Background: Chest trauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for about 25% of all trauma death. Motor vehicle accident is responsible for majority of thoracic trauma while isolated rib fractures is the commonest presentation. Over 90% of thoracic trauma can be successfully managed conservatively. Thoracic epidural analgesia is a significant method of pain relief in chest trauma. We report the role of thoracic epidural analgesia in the successful management of chest trauma in a 54yr old man in a poor resource setting, and suggest that given excellent pain relief, most chest injuries can be managed in low-resourced peripheral centers.