[Therapy of large postpneumonic tension cavities (pneumatoceles) (author's transl)]

A postpneumonic tension cavity (pneumatocele) is defined as subpleurally trapped air originating from interstitial emphysema following necrobiotic changes of lung tissue. We recommend for the treatment of large pneumatoceles intercostal drainage and continuous suctioning for several days to avoid tension pneumothorax and development of persistent fibrous pseudocysts.