The pleural space is in direct contact with the atmosphere such that gas can move freely in and out. Which type of pneumothorax does the above statement represent?

What are precipitating factors of postoperative atelectasis?

As gas accumulates in the pleural space, the chest diameter increases on the affected side in a tension pneumothorax.

The classic presentation of a pneumothorax is that of sudden crisis onset. What symptoms may the patient experience?

A thoracostomy chest tube attached to an underwater sealed is inserted into the patient’s pleural cavity to withdraw air, blood, and/or fluid.

What type of pneumothorax is caused by a medical procedure during specific diagnostic or therapeutic procedures?

Atelectasis may be limited to the smallest lung unit that is the alveolus or _________ _______, or it may involve an entire lung or segment of the lung.

The major pathologic and anatomic alterations associated with atelectasis include partial or total collapse of the following:

The major pathologic or structural changes of the lungs that may result from a flail chest:

A spontaneous pneumothorax is secondary to certain underlying pathologic processes such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COPD. A spontaneous pneumothorax is sometimes caused by the rupture of a small bleb or bulla on the surface of the lung. This type of pneumothorax often occurs in tall, thin, people aged 15 to 35 years.