As of now they are reporting a contused (bruised) lung with possible concussion. A lung contusion usually is accompanied by some coughing up of blood, and creates swelling, collapse and stiffness of the lung tissue so that breathing is belabored with poor oxygenation of the blood. The problem with this type of injury is that it commonly "extends" (worsens in terms of lung tissue swelling, collapse and stiffness and oxygenation) over the 48-72 hour period following the trauma. It must be carefully followed in a hospital setting for this period since it can easily result in need for placing the patient on a respirator while the lung heals. When dealing with chest trauma in general, this injury alone can determine whether a patient recovers or dies......the more severe, the greater the potential for mortality despite proper treatment (~10% for moderate contusion to as high as 40-50% for severe contusion). We should have a more accurate feel for his extent of injury in the next 48 hours or so. Prayers to the young man.
