Chest Seals

How a Chest Seal Works

A penetrating chest wound can open a path for air to enter the pleural space from outside. As that air accumulates, it collapses the lung and — if pressure keeps building — pushes the mediastinum across, choking off venous return in a tension pneumothorax. A chest seal is an occlusive dressing that closes the hole so the lung can work, while a vented design gives trapped air a one-way path out.

Vented vs. non-vented

Application doctrine

• Expose and dry — wipe the skin so the seal adheres; blood and sweat defeat the adhesive.
• Seal entry and exit — a through-and-through wound needs a seal on both sides.
• Watch for tension — rising distress means lift or "burp" a non-vented seal, or confirm the vent is clear.
• Carry two — most penetrating chest wounds warrant more than one seal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related collections

MED-TAC International Corp. is a clinician-founded, veteran-led tactical medicine provider. Product references to CoTCCC reflect committee recommendations and do not imply FDA approval or certification. This content is educational and is not a substitute for hands-on training or medical direction.