Abstract

AbstractExperiences in managing patietns suffering cardiac stab woulds and coming to the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham from January 1964 to July 1972 are reviewed. From 1964 through July 1971, conservative management was ussed primarily, but most patients ultimately requirerd operation. Analysis of our experiences during this period convinced us of the advisability of primary operative management for these patients, and since Juoy 1971, primary oepative management has been used. In the years from January 19764 to July 1972, 34 patients with cardiac stab wounds were treated at our hospital. Ten were maanged conservatively with three deaths among this group. The remainig 24 received operative management either primarily or secondary, and all of these patients survived. A patient management program is outlined.