Tension Pneumothorax

Tension pneumothorax is life-threatening air trapped in pleural space under pressure, shifting mediastinum and compressing vena cava, causing severe dyspnea, hypotension, tracheal deviation, and hypoxemia. Treatment: immediate needle decompression (second intercostal space mid-clavicular); chest-tube insertion; oxygen; monitor; treat underlying (trauma/mechanical ventilation/COP); supportive care; urgent surgical consult if persistent air leak.

Common Symptoms

Severe dyspnea; hypotension; tracheal deviation; hypoxemia; mediastinal shift

Causes and Pathogenesis

Ball-valve air leak causes progressive pleural pressure and circulatory/respiratory collapse.

Treatment

Immediate needle decompression; chest tube; oxygen; supportive; treat cause

Preventive Measures

Careful mechanical ventilation; treat pneumothorax early.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Emergency/ICU/Thoracic-surgery 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.