Pneumothorax (collapse of lung)

Description A collapse of the l...

Description

A collapse of the lung. The lung can develop an air leak. Air that leaks between the lung and its surrounding structures (chest wall and diaphragm) causes a separation between the lung and chest wall. This air pressure can build with each breath, and can compress and collapse the lung. When severe, this buildup of air can compress the blood vessels and decrease blood return to the heart. This is called a tension pneumothorax. If untreated the disorder can result in death. A pneumothorax can occur from trauma, spontaneously, or with coughing in a patient with lung disease such as emphysema.

Symptoms

Sudden sharp chest pain, chest pain made worse by a deep breath or a cough, shortness of breath, easy fatigue, rapid heart rate, cyanosis (bluish color of the skin), low blood pressure.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The lung may sound quiet when it is heard through a stethoscope. A chest X-ray can confirm the diagnosis. If the case is not clear or related to trauma a CT scan may be done.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, X-ray

Specialists:
General Surgery, Pulmonology, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Pulmonology

Treatment

Small pneumothoraces may go away on their own (the lung leak can heal and the air can reabsorb slowly). For a large pneumothorax, the air is removed through a surgically placed drainage tube. Until the leak in the lung heals, air around the lung is continuously removed by suction (vacuum). The drainage tube is called a chest tube. Treatment with a chest tube requires a hospital stay. Pain medications are needed.