Hemothorax historical perspective

Haemothorax has been detailed in numerous medical writings dating back to ancient times. In 1794, the first intercostal incision was developed by John Hunter to treat and drainage of the hemothorax. Although Hunter’s method was effective in evacuating the hemothorax, an iatrogenic pneumothorax as a result of the procedure was significant. Some recommended closure of chest wounds without drainage. Observing the advantages and dangers of both forms of therapy, Guthrie, in the early 1800s, proposed early evacuation of blood through an existing chest wound. Finally, by the 1870s, early hemothorax evacuation by intercostal incision was considered standard practice.^[1]

Important dates in the history of hemothorax:^[1]

• In 1794, the first intercostal incision was developed by John Hunter to treat and drainage of the hemothorax.
• Guthrie, in the early 1800s, proposed early evacuation of blood through an existing chest wound.
• By the 1870s, early hemothorax evacuation by intercostal incision was considered standard practice.

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