ABSTRACT
Injury seldom respects anatomical boundaries, hence the division of the body into the abdomen and the thorax is artificial. Therefore, injury to the torso with its associated physiological consequences is more appropriate. Injury consistently traverses different anatomical zones of the body, affecting structures on both sides of traditional anatomical zones. These zones are known as junctional zones. The pelvis contains a large plexus of vessels, both venous and arterial. Should injury occur, control of haemorrhage can prove to be exceptionally difficult and may require control of both arterial inflow and venous outflow. Angioembolisation can be a very useful adjunct to treatment, especially with deep pelvic injuries. Thoracic injury accounts for 25% of all severe injuries. In a further 25%, it may be a significant contributor to the subsequent death of the patient. Ultrasound can be used to differentiate between contusion and the actual presence of blood.
