pneumothorax

Full Definition

Pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, disrupting the negative pressure that normally keeps the lung expanded against the chest wall. In trauma patients, this typically results from lung laceration due to rib fractures or penetrating injury. Simple pneumothorax may be managed with observation or chest tube placement, while tension pneumothorax represents a surgical emergency requiring immediate decompression. The condition can rapidly progress from asymptomatic to life-threatening, particularly in mechanically ventilated patients.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify whether simple or tension pneumothorax, as treatment urgency differs dramatically

In Context

• "CT scan confirmed a 30% right pneumothorax requiring chest tube placement." — Radiology interpretation
• "The patient developed a pneumothorax following blunt chest trauma from the fall." — Emergency department assessment