Post-operative Atelectasis Flashcards
1
Q
What is atelectasis?
A
Partial collapse of the small airways due to airway compression, alveolar gas resorption intra-operatively and impairment of surfactant production.
2
Q
What are the main risk factors for developing atelectasis?
A
Age Smoking Use of general anaesthesia Duration of surgery Underlying lung or neuromuscular disease Prolonged bed rest Poor-post operative pain control - shallow breathing
3
Q
What are the clinical features of atelectasis?
A
Increased respiratory rate Reduced oxygen saturations Fine crackles over affected tissue Reduced oxygen saturation Can produce a low-grade fever
4
Q
What investigations can be performed?
A
CXR
CT
5
Q
What is the treatment for atelectasis?
A
Deep breathing exercises, chest physiotherapy
Pain control
Bronchoscopy to suction secretions
6
Q
How can atelectasis be prevented?
A
Chest physiology for major surgery patients
