What is Pneumothorax?
Pneumothorax is the accumulation of air in the pleural space, causing partial or complete collapse of the lung.
Spontaneous pneumothorax: Occurs naturally; divided into primary and secondary.
Primary: Common in young, thin, tall men; caused by rupture of small air cysts in the upper lung.
Secondary: Associated with pre-existing conditions such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, or metastasis.
Acute (Traumatic/Iatrogenic) pneumothorax: May occur after trauma, biopsy, or surgery.
Symptoms
Sudden, severe chest pain
Shortness of breath
Cough, rapid heart rate, bluish lips
If fully collapsed: hypotension and shock
Treatment
Mild cases: Observation and oxygen therapy
Moderate/severe cases: Chest tube drainage
Persistent air leak or recurrence: Surgery; single-port VATS with bullectomy
Surgical Indications
Air leak >5–7 days after chest tube
Second pneumothorax on the same side
Previous pneumothorax on opposite lung
Occupational necessity (pilot, diver, etc.)
Synchronous bilateral pneumothorax
Patients with prior pneumonectomy
Living far from specialized centers
Recurrence Rate
First pneumothorax: 20%
Second pneumothorax: 40%
After surgery: 0.1–1%
Other Services
