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Injury Definitions
Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax is a condition in which air
gets between the lungs and the chest wall. Normally, two thin layers of
moist tissue (pleura) separate the lungs and chest wall. Any air that leaks
through lung tissue into this space (pleural space) will cause the lung
tissue to collapse in proportion to the amount of air that enters the
pleural cavity. Air can collect in the pleural space for many reasons,
including: an injury that damages the chest wall, such as a stab or gunshot
wound; a broken rib that punctures the lung; a procedure or surgery that
involves the lung or chest wall. There are cases of spontaneous
pneumothorax, which is thought to be due to the rupture of an air-filled
blister on the surface of the lung. People with underlying lung disease,
such as asthma or cystic fibrosis, may be at increased risk of
pneumothorax. Pneumothorax is one cause of a collapsed lung, a serious and
sometimes life-threatening condition.
A doctor can confirm a diagnosis of
pneumothorax by a chest X-ray. Occasionally, the air leak seals itself.
Depending on the severity, a doctor can remove the air from the pleural
space with a tube inserted between the ribs and attached to a suction
device. Surgery may be needed when suction isn't effective or for recurrent
pneumothorax.
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