Pneumothorax

Question 1

define a pneumothorax

Answer 1

air in the pleural space that can lead to lung collapse

Question 2

investigation into a pneumothorax

Answer 2

CXR

Question 3

characteristics of a primary pneumothorax

Answer 3

less than 2cm and asymptomatic

Question 4

management for a primary spontaneous pneumothorax

Answer 4

admit for aspiration, if fails then chest drain

Question 5

risk factors for a secondary spontaneous pneumothorax

Answer 5

COPD
Ehlers-Danlos
Pulmonary fibrosis

Question 6

causes of a primary spontaneous pneumothorax

Answer 6

• trauma
• air bubble burst: This happens when a small air bubble on the lung ruptures. These may happen for no obvious reason or while undergoing changes in air pressure (like when scuba diving or mountain climbing).

Question 7

causes of a secondary spontaneous pneumothorax

Answer 7

those who already have lung disease, as the lung is already compromised by disease and may have diminished capacity

Question 8

treatment for a secondary spontaneous if 0-1cm and asymptomatic

Answer 8

admit for 24 hours

Question 9

treatment for a secondary spontaneous if 1-2cm and asymptomatic

Answer 9

aspiration

Question 10

treatment for a secondary spontaneous if more than 2cm or symptomatic

Answer 10

chest drain

Question 11

treatment for a tension pneumothorax

Answer 11

large bore venflon into 2nd intercostal space, mid-clavicular line

Question 12

where does aspiration take place in a non-tension pneumothorax

Answer 12

the fourth or fifth intercostal space in the mid-to-anterior axillary line