Pulmonary Radiofrequency Ablation Complicated by Tension Pneumothorax

ABSTRACT

Pneumothorax is a common complication of radiofrequency ablation of pulmonary lesions. During a treatment session, a moderate pneumothorax was initially managed by placement of a pigtail catheter. Due to technical considerations, ablation of the lesion was not performed; given resolution of the pneumothorax, the pigtail catheter was removed. However, after a short time, the patient's vital signs abruptly deteriorated and the diagnosis of tension pneumothorax was made clinically. A small-gauge catheter was emergently inserted with prompt improvement in the patient's condition, and a chest tube was subsequently placed via this access in the interventional department for definitive treatment.

KEYWORDS

Radiofrequency ablation - pneumothorax - thoracic interventions

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