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. It may take a few weeks before your lung has re-expanded.
Needle aspiration
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
A flexible chest tube is 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.
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.
