Non-Conventional Management Of Bilateral Pneumothorax And Pulmonary Contusion With High-Flow Oxygen Therapy And Prone Position

Research Article
Lacorte-Hernández Cynthia Lizbeth., Zamarrón-López Éder Iván., Soriano-Orozco Raúl., Deloya-Tomas Ernesto and Pérez-Nieto Orlando Rubén
DOI: 
http://dx.doi.org/10.24327/ijrsr.2018.0910.2826
Subject: 
science
KeyWords: 
Pneumothorax, high-flow oxygen therapy, prone.
Abstract: 

Introduction. Pneumothorax is defined as the presence of air in the intrapleural space that generates positive pressure when it should be negative, causing partial or total pulmonary collapse. High-flow oxygen therapy has been used in the treatment of pneumothorax with controversial results, referring to complications such as subcutaneous emphysema and the perpetuation of pneumothorax, especially in the pediatric population. Development. We present the case of a 33-year-old male with bilateral traumatic pneumothorax and pulmonary contusion, managed with high-flow oxygen therapy and intermittent prone position during his stay in the intensive care unit, with satisfactory evolution until his discharge. Conclusion. High-flow oxygen therapy was used as adjuvant treatment in this patient with uncomplicated pneumothorax and with rapid remission thereof and subcutaneous emphysema. Pulmonary distensibility was also improved with the prone position and left basal atelectasis was resolved. The benefit of such therapies with a greater number of patients.