Computed Tomographic Findings and Mortality in Patients With Pneumomediastinum From Blunt Trauma

The authors reviewed their experience with patients suffering blunt trauma who had evidence of a pneumomediastinum on CT.  Among over 3,000 pts, 2.7% had pneumomediastinum.  Those affected had higher injury scores and a higher mortality rate (12.5% vs 3.6%).  Increased risk of mortality was associated with posterior mediastinal air, air in all mediastinal spaces, and an associated hemothorax.