Pneumothorax Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Pneumothorax Overview A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing partial or complete lung collapse. Causes and Risk Factors Pneumothorax can result from trauma/chest injury, such as a rib fracture; it can also occur spontaneously, particularly in individuals with underlying lung conditions like emphysema, COPD, pneumonia, or cystic fibrosis. Symptoms Symptoms include sudden chest pain, difficulty in breathing, and cyanosis. Diagnosis Diagnosis involves a physical examination, chest X-ray, or CT to confirm the size and severity of the pneumothorax.Small pneumothorax may resolve on their own, but larger or symptomatic ones may require treatment. Options include observation with supplemental oxygen to promote the reabsorption of trapped air, or chest tube insertion to remove air and allow the lung to re-expand. Surgery may be necessary for recurring or severe cases to prevent future episodes and complications such as tension pneumothorax, where trapped air increases the pressure within the chest cavity, potentially compressing the heart and lungs. Treatment Treatment modalities for pneumothorax include:Needle Aspiration: Inserting a needle into the chest cavity to remove excess air, similar to chest tube insertion but less invasive.Pleurodesis: Creating inflammation and scar tissue in the pleural space (a thin space between the visceral and parietal pleura that lines the lungs and the chest wall respectively) using chemicals or talc to seal off the space and prevent recurrence.Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): Minimally invasive lung surgery using a small camera and instruments to view and treat the pneumothorax by removing blebs or sealing air leaks.Lung Reinflation Techniques: Methods like high-flow oxygen therapy to reinflate the collapsed lung without surgery.Preventive Measures: Preventive strategies, such as smoking cessation and avoiding activities that risk chest trauma are crucial for individuals prone to recurrent pneumothorax.The choice of treatment depends on pneumothorax size, symptoms, and the patient's overall health.