Pneumothorax in Kashmir valley: A comprehensive study

Pneumothorax presents the significant clinical and public health challenge in the Kashmir region due to the unique geographical, demographic, and socioeconomic factors. This study analyses the clinical patterns, etiological factors, management strategies, and outcomes of 650 pneumothorax cases treated at a tertiary care centre in Kashmir. This study aims to evaluate the clinical patterns, etiological factors, diagnostic approaches, management strategies, and outcomes of pneumothorax cases in the Kashmir region. By analysing a large dataset from a tertiary care centre, the study seeks to highlight region-specific challenges and propose improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to enhance patient care.

An ambispective analysis of 650 cases of pneumothorax from January 2020 to July 2024 was conducted. Patients were classified as having traumatic, spontaneous, or iatrogenic pneumothorax. Data on demographic distribution, clinical presentation, associated injuries, management approaches, complications and outcomes were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Traumatic pneumothorax was the most common type (61.5%, n = 400), with unilateral presentation in 67.5% of cases. Spontaneous pneumothorax accounted for 21.5% (n = 140), of which secondary causes predominated (54.3%). Iatrogenic pneumothorax comprised 16.9% (n = 110). Chest radiography (CxR) was the primary diagnostic tool (100%), with CT scanning required in 28.5% of cases. Ultrasound showed 89.2% sensitivity in emergency settings. Intercostal tube drainage (ICTD) was the mainstay of treatment in 78.5% of cases, yielding a success rate of 94.5%. Complications included persistent air leak (12%), empyema (3.7%), and recurrence (6.3%).

Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of pneumothorax in the Kashmir region, highlighting its unique etiological and clinical patterns. The findings emphasize the need for improved trauma care systems, standardized treatment protocols, and widespread training in emergency procedures, particularly in rural and resource-limited settings, to optimize patient outcomes and reduce complications.