Pronunciation: [klˈə͡ʊs t͡ʃˈɛst] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "close chest" can be confusing due to the various sounds represented by the letters. The first word, "close," is pronounced with a long "o" sound and a "z" like "cloze" (/kloʊz/). The second word, "chest," is pronounced with a short "e" sound and a "t" like "ch-est" (/tʃɛst/). Together they form the phrase "close chest" (/kloʊs tʃɛst/), which can mean to shut or seal a chest or container tightly.
Close chest refers to a medical term that pertains to the act of closing and securing the chest cavity in certain surgical procedures or emergency situations. It involves the process of suturing or fastening the chest wall to ensure the integrity and stability of the thoracic region.
In open thoracic surgeries, where the chest cavity is intentionally left open for extended periods, the closure of the chest becomes a critical step. This is commonly done after procedures such as lung resections, thoracotomies, or cardiac surgeries. The close chest procedure involves carefully reapproximating the layers of tissue, including the muscles, fascia, and skin, using sutures, staples, or clips. The aim is to provide adequate wound closure to prevent potential complications such as infection, herniation, or destabilization of the chest wall.
Moreover, the term close chest can also refer to an emergency situation where the chest needs to be closed urgently. For instance, in cases of trauma or injury, if the chest wall is opened during medical interventions like thoracotomies or exploratory surgeries, the subsequent step involves closing the chest rapidly to reinstate normal physiological conditions. This may involve the use of temporary chest closure methods like vacuum-assisted closure systems until definitive closure can be achieved.
Overall, close chest signifies the act of closing and securing the chest cavity in various surgical or emergency scenarios, essential for ensuring patient safety, preventing complications, and restoring the normal anatomical structure of the thoracic region.
