Stab-wounds and other penetrating injuries of the abdomen and thorax.

A series of 100 penetrating wounds of the abdomen and thorax is reviewed. Eighty-three were due to stab-wounds. The recent increase in incidence is confirmed and the distribution throughout the day and months of the year is given. The results and methods of treatment of thirtysix abdominal, ten thoraco-abdominal and thirtyseven thoracic wounds are given and described. An operative approach to abdominal wounds is supported. Conservative measures, including more frequent use of intercostal-tube drainage for pneumothorax and haemothorax, are satisfactory for the majority of chest wounds. Cardiac wounds require urgent assessment and resuscitation with pericardiocentesis and thoracotomy.