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Tension Pneumothorax

Air entering the pleural cavity accumulates by a one-way mechanism and compresses mediastinal structures.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Tension Pneumothorax?

Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening emergency in which air entering the pleural cavity cannot escape due to a one-way valve mechanism, leading to a progressive increase in pressure and compression of mediastinal structures. It most commonly develops after trauma, mechanical ventilation, and interventional procedures.

Increased intrapleural pressure compresses the venae cavae, reducing venous return and decreasing cardiac output. Hypotension, tachycardia, jugular venous distension, and tracheal deviation are classic findings. The patient can rapidly progress to circulatory collapse and cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis is clinical and treatment must not be delayed. Pressure must be relieved by emergency needle thoracostomy or finger thoracostomy, followed by chest tube insertion.

Symptoms

Severe dyspnea
Hypotension
Marked tachycardia
Tracheal deviation (to the opposite side)
Jugular venous distension
Cyanosis
Altered consciousness

Risk Factors

Trauma (penetrating or blunt)
Mechanical ventilation
Interventional procedures (central catheter, pleural puncture)
COPD with bullae
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Lung biopsy
Esophageal perforation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden respiratory deterioration after trauma
  • Sudden rise in airway pressure during mechanical ventilation
  • Circulatory collapse and hypotension
  • Sudden deterioration after chest tube placement

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency needle thoracostomy (second intercostal space, midclavicular line)
02
Finger thoracostomy (lateral approach)
03
Then tube thoracostomy
04
High-flow oxygen
05
Hemodynamic support
06
Treatment of the underlying cause

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.