What is a Cheat Seal?

Chest seal is a medical device used to treat open chest wounds, also known as sucking chest wounds.

Why are chest seals vented?

When an object such as a bullet or knife penetrates the chest wall, creating an opening that allows air to enter the pleural cavity, which can lead to a tension pneumothorax. A tension pneumothorax occurs when the pressure in the pleural cavity increases, causing the lung to collapse and compressing the heart and other vital organs.

Chest seal is designed to prevent air from entering the pleural cavity, which allows the lung to re-expand and relieves the pressure on the heart and other organs. The device is typically made of a thin, flexible material, such as silicone or hydrogel, and is coated with a strong adhesive that allows it to adhere tightly to the skin around the wound.

The use of chest seals has been shown to significantly reduce mortality rates in patients with open chest wounds, making them a critical life-saving device in emergency situations.