Related Experiment Videos
[Change in ventricular repolarization associated with acute spontaneous pneumothorax]
Minerva Medica
|June 23, 1981
Summary
Acute pneumothorax can cause significant QT segment elongation, indicating changes in ventricular repolarization. This finding suggests a reflex mechanism affecting the autonomous nervous system in patients with pneumothorax.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Autonomic Nervous System
Context:
- Acute pneumothorax cases admitted between 1975-1978 were analyzed.
- Exclusion criteria included chronic heart/bronchopulmonary disease or other conditions causing QT elongation.
Purpose:
- To investigate potential changes in ventricular repolarization in patients with acute pneumothorax.
- To determine the incidence and characteristics of electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities.
Summary:
- A significant QT segment elongation was observed in 23 out of 126 acute pneumothorax cases.
- ECG changes were independent of pneumothorax location and size.
- The study posits a reflex mechanism involving the autonomous nervous system as the explanation for these findings.
Impact:
- Highlights a potential link between acute pneumothorax and cardiac repolarization abnormalities.
- Suggests a role for the autonomic nervous system in mediating these cardiovascular effects.
- Provides insights into the physiological responses to pneumothorax.