What kind of injuries result during the energy exchange of a blast?

Injuries that result from the energy exchange during a blast are classified as primary blast injuries. This category encompasses injuries that occur due to the pressure wave produced by an explosion. When the blast wave travels through the air, it can cause significant damage to the internal organs, particularly those that are gas-filled, such as the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and middle ear. These injuries often manifest as barotrauma or blast lung and can result in ruptured eardrums, lung contusions, and other injuries caused by the abrupt change in pressure.

The mechanism of the injury is distinct due to the direct impact of the pressure waves, as opposed to injuries that would arise from shrapnel or other secondary effects, which are typically seen in penetrating injuries. Understanding this concept is crucial for assessing trauma in blast victims, as primary blast injuries may not always be immediately apparent but can lead to serious complications if not identified and treated promptly.