Atelectasis

Atelectasis is collapse/non-aeration of lung parenchyma, due to bronchial obstruction (mucus plug/tumor/foreign body), compression (pleural effusion/pneumothorax), or adhesive (surfactant loss). Clinical: dyspnea, cough, diminished breath sounds, reduced chest movement, and platelike/segmental opacities. Treatment: treat cause; airway clearance (physiotherapy/suctioning); incentive spirometry; bronchodilators; bronchoscopy to remove mucus plug/foreign body/tumor; treat infection; relieve compression (chest tube/drain effusion); post-op respiratory care.

Common Symptoms

Dyspnea/cough; diminished breath sounds; platelike/segmental opacities; by obstructive/compression/adhesive

Causes and Pathogenesis

Bronchial obstruction/compression/adhesive loss causes alveolar collapse and non-aeration.

Treatment

Treat cause; airway clearance; bronchoscopy if obstruction; relieve compression

Preventive Measures

Post-op incentive spirometry; treat mucus plugging; early mobilization.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pulmonology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.