atelectasis Flashcards
what is atelectasis?
partial collapse or incomplete inflation of the lung
what are the consequences of atelectasis?
impaired gas exchange and decreased oxygenation
what are the 3 main types of atelectasis?
Obstructive
Non-obstructive
Compressive
what is obstructive atelectasis?
atelectasis caused by blockage (e.g. mucus plugs, forgein body, tumour) that prevents air reaching alveoli
what is non-obstructive atelectasis?
atelectasis caused by external pressure (e.g. pleural effusion/pneumothorax) or decreased surfactant production
what is compressive atelectasis?
when pressure from outside the lung (e.g. pleural effusion or tumour) prevents lung expansion
what are clinical signs of atelectasis?
- decreased breath sounds
- dulness to percussion
- decreased chest expansion
what are symptoms of atelectasis?
- SOB
- chest pain
- cough
- hypoxia
why is atelectasis common post-surgery?
Impaired Ventilation
Decreased Deep Breathing
Impaired Mucocilary Clearance
why is ventilation impaired post-surgery?
- general anesthesia causes reduced FRC and diaphragmatic dysfunction
- supine position during surgery limits lung expansion
why is deep breathing decreased post-surgery?
Pain makes patients reluctant to take deep breaths or cough, leading to hypoventilation and collapsed alveoli
why is mucocillary clearance impaired post-surgery?
- anesthesia suppresses cough reflex
- secretions build up in airways promoting mucus plugging and obstruction
what are treatments for Post-surgery Atelectasis?
- Early mobilisation
- Incentive spirometry: encourages sustained maximal inspirations to re-expand alveoli
- ACBT
- Suctioning if cannot clear
- Pain control
