Massive Hemoptysis

Massive hemoptysis is life threatening, as only a small amount of blood is needed to occlude the airway and cause asphyxiation. Prompt action is required to clear the normal lung of blood so that ventilation and oxygenation can be re-established. This is followed by lung isolation to protect the normal lung and then intervention to stop the bleeding. Definitive management of the inciting pathology can be considered once the patient has stabilized from hemorrhage.