A pneumothorax occurs when one or both lungs collapse due to the accumulation of air or gas between your lung and chest wall. It may also be caused by a blunt or penetrating chest injury, certain medical procedures, or damage from underlying lung disease.
Treatment for a pneumothorax usually involves relieving the pressure on your lung using several methods include observation, needle aspiration, chest tube insertion, nonsurgical repair or surgery.
Observation
You may be able to monitor your condition with a series of chest x-rays if only a small portion of your lung is collapsed. The air in the pleural space can sometimes be reabsorbed by the body on its own. In such cases, patients are monitored closely with repeat chest X-rays and may receive supplemental oxygen to help the air clear faster. It may take a few weeks before your lung has re-expanded.
Needle aspiration
If the pneumothorax is larger or causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, a procedure is often required to remove the air and allow the lung to re-expand. Needle aspiration is a common first step, where a needle or chest tube will be used to remove the excess air. A hollow needle with a catheter is inserted between the ribs. The excess air is then pumped out with a syringe attached to the catheter until the lung is re-expanded.
Chest tube insertion
If more drainage is needed, a flexible chest tube may be inserted between the ribs into the space around the lungs to help drain the air and allow the lung to re-expand. It may be left in place for several days or until the excess air is removed.
Pleurodesis
For people with recurrent or persistent pneumothorax, more definitive treatments are considered. Pleurodesis, a procedure that causes the lung and chest wall lining to stick together, can help prevent further episodes.
Surgery
Surgery for pneumothorax includes making an incision in the lungs to examine for air leaks, blisters or to remove the collapsed portion of your lung.
