Tension pneumothorax resident survival guide

Jump to navigation Jump to search

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

Management

Shown below is an algorithm depicting the management of tension pneumothorax.


❑ {{familytree | G01 | | | | | G01=
Once the diagnosis of tension pneumothorax is confirmed, initiate the treatment:

References


Template:WikiDoc Sources

Characterize the symptoms:

❑ ❑ ❑

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Identify existing risk factors:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examine the patient:

Vital signs

Lungs

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Order tests: