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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

International Expert Consensus and Recommendations for Neonatal Pneumothorax Ultrasound Diagnosis and Ultrasound-guided Thoracentesis Procedure
Published on: March 12, 2020
Pneumothorax in cystic fibrosis: prevalence and outcomes in Scotland
A MacDuff1, J Tweedie, L McIntosh
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, United Kingdom. andrew.macduff@tesco.net
Background:
Pneumothorax is a feared complication of cystic fibrosis. With improved survival into adult life the incidence of pneumothorax is expected to increase. The optimal management of these patients is unclear.
Methods:
Case review of patients from the three Scottish adult CF centres.
Results:
A total of 22 episodes of pneumothorax occurred in 20 patients over a 12year period. 2 patients died as a result of the pneumothorax. 16 pneumothoraces were treated by insertion of an intercostal drain and 8 by observation. 8 patients suffered a prolonged air leak. 5 patients were treated with pleurodesis. Pneumothorax was associated with a small decline in lung function which persisted for at least 1year.
Conclusion:
Pneumothorax can present a challenge to treat in adult CF. However successful outcomes can be achieved even in cases of prolonged air leaks. Current national guidelines help in selecting optimal pleural interventions.
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