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Treatment
Treatment of Pneumothorax (Air around the Lung): Restoring Breathing and Lung Function
Pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse and resulting in a sudden onset of sharp chest pain and breathlessness. This condition can be spontaneous, without an obvious cause, or result from chest trauma or underlying lung disease. The most typical symptom of a pneumothorax is a sudden, sharp chest pain on one side followed by shortness of breath. Diagnosis is generally confirmed through a chest X-ray or CT scan, which can reveal the presence of air outside the lung.
Treatment for pneumothorax depends on its size and severity and ranges from observation for small, symptom-free cases to emergency interventions to remove the air and allow the lung to re-expand. In some instances, surgery may be required, especially for recurrent pneumothorax or those due to weak spots (blebs/bullae) in the lung tissue. Procedures like Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) are minimally invasive options that not only treat the current collapse but also help prevent future episodes by addressing underlying lung pathology.
For those in need of expert medical advice or intervention for pneumothorax, Dr. Mohan Venkatesh Pulle is a renowned thoracic surgeon whose experience and surgical skill make him a trusted authority in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pneumothorax is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space, the area between the lung and the chest wall. This can lead to lung collapse and difficulty breathing.
Symptoms of pneumothorax include sudden sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, dry cough, and in some cases, shoulder or back pain.
Yes, there are several types, including Spontaneous (both primary and secondary), Traumatic, Tension, and Iatrogenic. Each type has distinct causes and characteristics.
Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans. The type and severity of pneumothorax guide the diagnostic approach.
Treatment depends on the severity. Mild cases may resolve on their own, while more severe cases may require intervention. Options include observation, needle aspiration, chest tube insertion, or surgery to remove trapped air and stabilize the lung.
