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Primary spontaneous pneumothorax: treatment practices in Australia
M Sutherland1, J Burdon, D Hart
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.
Objective:
The aim of the present study was to determine treatment practices for spontaneous pneumothorax (PTX) in Australia.
Methodology:
A questionnaire regarding treatment of PTX was posted to all medically qualified members of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand resident in Australia.
Results:
Fifty-three per cent (n = 226) of questionnaires were returned. Twenty-one responses were judged to be informal and rejected from analysis. The results indicate a general agreement in the treatment of small and large PTX but a wide variation in PTX of intermediate size.
Conclusion:
Opinion regarding the optimal treatment for PTX of intermediate size was found to vary considerably. There is a need for evidence-based development and publication of best practice guidelines for PTX.