Pneumothorax
Alternate Names : Air Around the Lung, Air Outside the Lung
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Pneumothorax Treatment
The objective of treatment is to remove the air from the pleural space, allowing the lung to re-expand. Small pneumothoraces may resolve on their own.
The placement of a chest tube (chest tube insertion) between the ribs into the pleural space allows the evacuation of air from the pleural space. With the chest tube left in place, the lung may take several days to re-expand. Hospitalization is required for proper care of the chest tube.
Supplemental oxygen may be needed to help air around the lung be reabsorbed more quickly.
Surgery may be needed to prevent recurrent episodes.
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