NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Pneumothorax
What is Pneumothorax?
Pneumothorax is an area around the lungs where air has gathered. In infants, there are tiny air sacs that can rupture, leaking air into the areas around the lungs. This can be caused in several ways, two common ones being placed on oxygen management, such as a ventilator, or meconium aspiration. The danger with a pneumothorax is the possibility for lung collapse.
Treatment
Treatment for pneumothorax depends on the severity of the condition. If it is less severe, the condition may merely be monitored. For more serious cases, the air may be removed via needle or catheter.
See Also:
• University of Virginia HealthSystem - Pneumothorax
• Medline Plus - Pneumothorax