Pneumothorax Flashcards
Where does a Pneumothorax occur?
In the pleural cavity.
What is a Pneumothorax?
The presence of air or gas in the cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, causing collapse of the lung.
What happens in a pneumothorax?
Air collects in the pleural cavity which causes the collapse of a lung because a vacuum is created.
What physiological abnormalities occur?
- Impaired mechanics of ventilation
- Reduction of blood oxygen if severe
What prior events can cause a primary pneumothorax?
These are type of pneumothorax with no obvious cause or any prior lung disease.
What prior events can cause a secondary pneumothorax?
- Occurs in the presence of existing lung disease.
- This can also be caused by physical trauma to the chest such as a stabbing.
- Anything which would allow air into the pleural cavity.
What are the signs and symptoms of a pneumothorax?
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Deviated trachea (if it’s a tension pneumothorax)
- Reduced breathing sounds
- Hypoxia
What is a tension pneumothorax?
An abnormal collection of air or gas in the pleural space that causes an uncoupling of the lung from the chest wall. Like pleural effusion (liquid buildup in that space), pneumothorax may interfere with normal breathing.
What are the clinical signs of a tension pneumothorax?
- Hypotension
- Can lead to cardiac arrest
What are the abnormal test results of a pneumothorax?
A chest X-ray and CT scan will show a collapsed lung
What are the medical and surgical intervention options available?
Chest drain for a large pneumothorax into the 5th intercostal space
What are the preventative measures which can be taken?
-Pleurodesis (Pleurodesis is a medical procedure in which the pleural space is artificially obliterated. It involves the adhesion of the two pleurae.
Pleurodesis is performed to prevent recurrence of pneumothorax or recurrent pleural effusion. It can be done chemically or surgically.)
- Avoid significant changes in atmospheric pressure such as climbing mountains and getting in aeroplanes.
