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[Atelectasis: mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment in the pediatric patient]

Cíntia Johnston1, Werther Brunow de Carvalho

  • 1Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP. cintiajohnston@terra.com.br

Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira (1992)
|November 8, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This review found limited evidence on pediatric atelectasis treatment, highlighting a need for more clinical trials. Current practices, including chest physiotherapy, have improved, but research is scarce.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Respiratory Physiology

Context:

  • Atelectasis is a significant respiratory condition in children.
  • Understanding its mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for pediatric care.
  • Existing literature from 1960-2007 shows a paucity of high-level evidence.

Purpose:

  • To conduct a comprehensive literature review on pediatric atelectasis.
  • To synthesize current knowledge on the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric atelectasis.
  • To identify gaps in the evidence base, particularly concerning treatment efficacy.

Summary:

  • A systematic search identified 45 articles on pulmonary atelectasis, with 17 focusing on pediatric cases.
  • The pediatric literature predominantly consists of low-level evidence (case series, case reports, reviews).
  • No randomized clinical trials were found specifically evaluating the most effective treatments for pediatric atelectasis.

Impact:

  • Highlights the critical need for high-quality, randomized clinical trials in pediatric atelectasis.
  • Suggests that advancements in bronchoscopy and chest physiotherapy have improved clinical management.
  • Emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice in pediatric respiratory care.
Abstract

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