Tension pneumothorax resident survival guide: Difference between revisions
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===Life Threatening Causes=== | ===Life Threatening Causes=== | ||
Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated. | Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition and must be treated as such irrespective of the causes. | ||
===Common Causes=== | ===Common Causes=== | ||
Revision as of 16:29, 10 March 2014
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Definition
Tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency caused by accumulation of air or gas in the pleural cavity. Air enter the intrapleural space through the lung parenchyma, or through a traumatic communication from the chest wall.
Causes
Life Threatening Causes
Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition and must be treated as such irrespective of the causes.