Predicting the Need for Tube Thoracostomy in Blunt Trauma Patients With Occult Pneumothorax: Observation Versus Intervention

Physiological indicators such as subcutaneous emphysema and mechanical ventilation are superior to anatomical parameters in predicting deterioration among patients with occult pneumothorax. Our findings support a selective management strategy and highlight the utility of predictive modelling to guide tube thoracostomy decisions. Prospective multicentre studies are warranted to validate these results.