Respiratory System - Pneumothorax Flashcards
1
Q
Define pneumothorax?
A
Air in the pleural cavity
2
Q
Describe how pneumothorax are classified?
A
Primary - w/o apparent cause (no respiratory diseases)
Secondary - occurs in the presence of lung disease/significant smoking Hx
Sub-classified into spontaneous vs traumatic
3
Q
When are pneumothorax a medical emergency?
A
Tension pneumothorax (valve effect) = mediastinal shift to contralateral side with compressed venous return Management = chest drain into 2nd intercostal space, mid-clav. line
4
Q
Describe five symptoms associated with pneumothorax?
A
Shortness of breath Chest pain (pleuritic) Cough SUDDEN onset Tension pneumothorax = dizziness/collapse
5
Q
Describe 6 clinical signs noted with pneumothorax?
A
Tachypnoea Hypoxic Tachycardia Increased percussion node Decreased breathsounds Surgical emphysema
6
Q
When is a pneumothorax defined as large?
A
If there is complete seperation of pleural surfaces - interpleural distance >2cm at the hilum
