Reexpansion pulmonary edema after chest drainage for pneumothorax: A case report and literature overview
M Verhagen1, J M van Buijtenen1, L M G Geeraedts1
1VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, Department of Traumasurgery, The Netherlands.
Background:
Reexpansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is a rare complication that may occur after treatment of lung collapse caused by pneumothorax, atelectasis or pleural effusion and can be fatal in 20% of cases. The pathogenesis of RPE is probably related to histological changes of the lung parenchyma and reperfusion-damage by free radicals leading to an increased vascular permeability. RPE is often self-limiting and treatment is supportive.
Case Report:
A 76-year-old patient was treated by intercostal drainage for a traumatic pneumothorax. Shortly afterwards he developed reexpansion pulmonary edema and was transferred to the intensive care unit for ventilatory support. Gradually, the edema and dyspnea diminished and the patient could be discharged in good clinical condition.
Conclusion:
RPE is characterized by rapidly progressive respiratory failure and tachycardia after intercostal chest drainage. Early recognition of signs and symptoms of RPE is important to initiate early management and allow for a favorable outcome.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
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...
Pulmonary Cycle: Exhalation
Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's...


