How Does a Chest Seal Work?

A medical chest seal is a specialized adhesive device used to treat open chest wounds, such as those caused by gunshots, stab wounds, or other penetrating trauma. These wounds can potentially lead to a pneumothorax (collapsed lung), where air enters the chest cavity and disrupts normal lung function.

Key Features:

  • Adhesive Backing: Designed to adhere securely to the skin, even in the presence of blood, sweat, or dirt.
  • One-Way Valve (Optional): Some chest seals have a vent or one-way valve that allows air and fluids to escape from the chest cavity but prevents air from re-entering. This is useful for preventing or managing a tension pneumothorax.
  • Occlusive Material: Made of a flexible, waterproof material that seals the wound to stop air from entering the chest cavity.

Types:

  1. Vented Chest Seals: Include one-way valves or channels, such as the HyFin Vent or SAM Chest Seal.
  2. Non-Vented Chest Seals: Completely occlusive and used when a vented option is not available or practical.

Application:

  1. Clean the Wound: If possible, remove debris, but don’t delay application if the wound is critical.
  2. Apply Over the Wound: Place the seal over the wound to completely cover it, ensuring an airtight seal.
  3. Monitor for Tension Pneumothorax: Watch for signs such as difficulty breathing or chest expansion and adjust treatment as needed.

Purpose:

Chest seals are a crucial component in trauma care kits for military medics, emergency responders, and civilian first aid kits. They are life-saving devices that stabilize the patient until advanced medical care is available.

North American Rescue’s NAR Doc (Dr. Ethan Miles) takes us through a quick explanation on the mechanics of how chest seals work in the treatment of an open pneumothorax or the prevention of a tension pneumothorax using the HyFin Vent Chest Seal.

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