An individual suffers severe blunt trauma to the thoracic cavity. Which of the following organs are at greatest risk from this injury?
A.
Heart and lungs
B.
Brain and spinal cord
C.
Liver and stomach
D.
Large and small intestines
In the case of severe blunt trauma to the thoracic cavity, the organs most at risk are:
A. Heart and lungs
Explanation:
- A. Heart and lungs: The thoracic cavity houses the heart and lungs, making them the most directly affected organs in the event of trauma to this area. Blunt trauma can lead to conditions such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, cardiac tamponade, or rib fractures, all of which can seriously impact these vital organs.
- B. Brain and spinal cord: These organs are located in the cranial cavity and spinal column, respectively, not the thoracic cavity. Therefore, they are less directly affected by trauma to the thoracic region.
- C. Liver and stomach: These organs are located in the abdominal cavity. While severe trauma to the thoracic cavity can sometimes impact abdominal organs, the liver and stomach are not the primary organs at risk in this scenario.
- D. Large and small intestines: These are also located in the abdominal cavity. Similar to the liver and stomach, they are less directly impacted by thoracic trauma.
Therefore, the organs at greatest risk from severe blunt trauma to the thoracic cavity are:
A. Heart and lungs