Pneumothorax masked by subcutaneous emphysema after laparoscopic nephrectomy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Robotic-assisted Left Pneumonectomy For Vanishing Lung Syndrome
Published on: January 23, 2026
Jeffrey A Stern1, Robert B Nadler
1Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611-3008, USA.
Abstract:
An 81-year-old man with an enhancing upper-pole renal mass underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy via a retroperitoneal approach. Postoperatively, his systolic blood pressure declined to 72 mm Hg, and arterial blood gas analysis suggested acute respiratory acidosis. Chest radiography suggested subcutaneous emphysema, but a CT scan showed tension pneumothorax. This case illustrates the difficulties in interpretation of chest films caused by the subcutaneous air that is routinely present after laparoscopic procedures.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due to...
Pleura of the Lungs

