Western Trauma Association critical decisions in trauma: Lung injury.

ABSTRACT: This is the Western Trauma Association's recommended algorithm for the management of a traumatic lung injury. The current algorithm and recommendations are based on available published randomized trials, observational studies, systematic reviews, and the expert opinion of the Western Trauma Association members. The algorithm and accompanying text represent a safe and reasonable approach to this common problem. We recognize that there may be variability in decision-making, local resources, institutional consensus, and patient-specific factors that may require deviations from the presented algorithm. This annotated algorithm is meant to serve as a basis from which protocols at individual institutions can be developed or serve as a quick bedside reference for clinicians.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Consensus algorithm from the Western Trauma Association, Level V. (J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2026;101: 187-198. Copyright c 2026 Wolters Kluwer Health, LLC. All rights reserved.).