Tension pneumothorax resident survival guide
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Definition
Tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency caused by accumulation of air 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.
Common Causes
- Blunt trauma
- Central venous catheter
- Mechanical ventilation
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
- Emphysema
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Management
Shown below is an algorithm depicting the management of tension pneumothorax.
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References
Characterize the symptoms: ❑ ❑ | |||||||||||||||
Identify existing risk factors: ❑ | |||||||||||||||
Examine the patient: Vital signs Lungs | |||||||||||||||
Order tests: | |||||||||||||||
Once the diagnosis of tension pneumothorax is confirmed, initiate the treatment:
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