A pneumothorax is simply air leaking from the lung into the space around it inside the chest; this air compresses the lung and stops it expanding normally. It most often affects tall, thin young men or smokers because small air blisters (blebs) at the top of the lung burst suddenly, and it can follow an injury or — as we occasionally see — acupuncture sessions when a needle is placed wrongly and punctures the lung.
Common symptoms
- Sudden sharp pain on one side of the chest
- Breathlessness that worsens with movement
- A sudden dry cough
- A fast pulse and pallor in severe cases
When is surgery an option?
A first small episode may be managed by observation or a chest drain. Recurrence, a persistent air leak, visible blebs on CT, involvement of both sides, or an occupation in aviation or diving all call for surgery to remove the blebs and stick the lung to the chest wall to prevent recurrence — done through a single port or robotically in about an hour.
Treatment options
- Urgent imaging and a chest drain when needed
- Bleb resection and pleurodesis by uniportal VATS or robotic surgery
- Treatment of traumatic pneumothorax and associated rib fractures
- A recurrence-prevention plan including smoking cessation
Frequently asked questions
Can a pneumothorax recur after surgery?
The recurrence rate after bleb resection and pleurodesis is very low compared with drain treatment alone, which is why surgery is recommended after a repeat episode.
Book your appointment in Jeddah
Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital – Jeddah (Main Branch) · Monday & Thursday, 5:00 – 8:00 PM