As Dr. Smith examined the patient, she looked for signs and symptoms of traumatic asphyxia:

While the visual signs of traumatic asphyxia are alarming, the prognosis depends largely on the management of the associated injuries. Treatment is supportive, focusing on airway management, oxygenation, and treating underlying trauma (fractures, organ damage). The skin discoloration and petechiae usually resolve spontaneously over 2 to 3 weeks.

The syndrome is most recognized by a "classic triad" of physical findings:

When you encounter a patient with a history of chest or abdominal crush (vehicle rollover, industrial accident, crowd collapse):

As they worked, Dr. Smith explained the situation to the patient's friends, who were anxiously waiting for news. "He's in critical condition," she said gently. "The pressure on his chest caused damage to his lungs, and possibly other internal injuries. We're doing everything we can to stabilize him and prevent further complications."