What is the TRUFLOW™ valve in the SAM Chest Seal, and how is it different from a standard vent?
The TRUFLOW™ valve is SAM Medical's patented raised-dome one-way valve design. Unlike flat channel vents or flap vents that rely on passive airflow dynamics and can be compressed shut by body armor, transport pressure, or casualty positioning, the TRUFLOW dome is rigid enough to maintain its shape under external compression — keeping a one-way airflow pathway open regardless of the pressure applied. Large side vents flanking the dome minimize blockage from blood clots or soft tissue. This makes the SAM Valved Chest Seal particularly reliable during transport under body armor and in casualty positions that compress the chest wall.
What is in the SAM Chest Seal COMBO pack?
The SAM Chest Seal COMBO (CS203-EN, NSN 6510-01-656-8718) contains one SAM® Valved Chest Seal with the TRUFLOW™ rigid raised-dome one-way valve, and one SAM® Non-Valved Chest Seal (fully occlusive). The valved seal is designed for anterior entry wounds where active one-way venting is needed. The non-valved seal is intended for posterior exit wounds or as backup occlusion. SAM Medical states the product meets CoTCCC-preferred features for chest seals.
Is the SAM Chest Seal available with an NSN for military procurement?
Yes. The SAM Chest Seal product line has three NSN-listed items: the COMBO (CS203-EN, NSN 6510-01-656-8718), the Valved 2.0 individual (CS202-EN, NSN 6510-01-658-7745), and the Non-Valved individual (CS201-EN, NSN 6510-01-621-1129). All three are also available commercially through MED-TAC International (Pembroke Pines, FL) for law enforcement, emergency medical services, and civilian procurement. The products are Made in USA.
How does the SAM Chest Seal adhesive perform in the field?
SAM Medical describes the SAM Chest Seal adhesive as capable of sealing and resealing open chest wounds "through extreme heat or cold, no matter the elements." The adhesive is designed to maintain bond strength in the presence of blood, sweat, and environmental contaminants across a wide operational temperature range. One or both pull tabs can be used to facilitate placement, lifting, and wound burping — maintaining adhesive function through multiple seal-and-reseal cycles. This resealing capability is particularly valuable in extended care scenarios where burping is required and the seal must be re-applied without a replacement available.
Why would I choose the SAM Chest Seal over other vented chest seals?
The SAM Chest Seal's primary differentiator is the TRUFLOW™ rigid-dome valve — designed to continue venting even when compressed by body armor, tactical vest, or positional pressure. Responders who are primarily concerned about valve function during transport under load-bearing equipment should consider the SAM Valved Chest Seal specifically for this capability. Additionally, SAM Medical products are NSN-listed and Made in USA, making them suitable for government and military procurement. The COMBO pack also provides the combination of valved and non-valved seals needed for complete bilateral wound management in a single package.