Tension pneumothorax

Treatment:

The objective of treatment is to remove the air from the pleural space, allowing the lung to re-expand. A chest tube is inserted through the chest wall between the ribs. The chest tube is attached to a vacuum bottle which slowly and continuously removes air from the chest cavity. This allows the lung to re-expand. As the lung heals and stops leaking air, the vacuum is turned down and then the chest tube is removed. Hospitalization is usually required since it may take several days to fully re-expand the lung.

Surgery may be indicated for recurrent episodes or if the lung does not re-expand after 5 days with a chest tube in place.

Expectations (prognosis):

Up to 50% of patients with spontaneous pneumothorax experience recurrence. There are no long term complications following successful therapy.

Complications:

• acute respiratory failure
• pneumomediastinum (air in the mediastinal space, which can interfere with heart and lung functioning)

Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms of this disorder are present.