Anesth Pain Med.  2015 Apr;10(2):134-137. 10.17085/apm.2015.10.2.134.

Tension pneumothorax during tracheoesophageal fistula repair: A case report

• Park S
• Lee H

• KMID: 2148048
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.17085/apm.2015.10.2.134

Abstract

Tension pneumothorax (PTx) was diagnosed in a preterm baby during surgery for tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). The PTx occurred around 90 minutes after skin incision, while the baby was breathing spontaneously with intermittent positive pressure ventilation (PPV) at low pressure. A sudden decrease in oxygen saturation (SpO2), hemodynamic compromise, and decreased breath sounds on the right side suggested a right-sided tension PTx. After prompt radiological confirmation, needle aspiration of air through the surgical site restored the patient's condition immediately. Although the sudden unexpected hypoxemia and circulatory problems may confuse anesthesiologists, prompt diagnosis and proper treatment are required for successful clinical outcomes in tension PTx.

Keyword

Desaturation; Pneumothorax; Prematurity

MeSH Terms

Anoxia
Diagnosis
Hemodynamics
Intermittent Positive-Pressure Ventilation
Needles
Oxygen
Pneumothorax*
Respiration
Skin
Tracheoesophageal Fistula*
Oxygen