Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax occurs when air enters the space between the lung and chest wall, causing part or all of the lung to collapse. It may follow injury, a medical procedure or occur spontaneously.
Symptoms
Sudden chest pain and breathlessness. A severe pneumothorax can cause low blood pressure and become life-threatening.
How interventional radiology treats it
Treatment may involve inserting a needle or chest drain to remove trapped air and allow the lung to re-expand. Imaging can guide placement when necessary. A tension pneumothorax requires immediate emergency treatment and must not wait for routine imaging. Follow-up checks confirm that the lung has re-expanded.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.