Late presentation of delayed hemothorax after blunt chest trauma in a patient with impaired liver function

Abstract

Delayed hemothorax (DHTX) after blunt chest trauma (BCT) is fairly uncommon but nevertheless associated with a substantial morbidity. DTHX is often related to several or displaced rib fractures and usually presented within the first few days or weeks after the chest trauma. We present a case with an unusual late presentation of DTHX 4½ months following a BCT with several non-displaced rib fractures after falling down a staircase. Furthermore, we argue that patients with impaired liver function may have an increased risk of bleeding complications after BCT with associated rib fractures and should be considered for more intensive follow-up.