Pneumothorax

Closed

• Not exposed to outside world
• Usually not traumatic
• Lung air is drawn into pleural cavity during inspiration, reducing potential lung expansion

Open

• Chest wall perforation usually traumatic
• External air is drawn into pleural cavity reducing expansion

Tension pneumothorax

• Perforation forms a one-way valve - air can only enter the pleural cavity
• Pressure builds up causing compression and a shift in mediastinum

Needs decompression to relieve pressure - via needle in intercostal splace or chest drain