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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2023; 44(04): 426-436
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769615
Review Article

Expert Review on Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Advances, Controversies, and New Directions

Eleanor C. Barton
1   Academic Respiratory Unit, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
,
Nick A. Maskell
1   Academic Respiratory Unit, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
,
Steven P. Walker
1   Academic Respiratory Unit, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
› Author Affiliations
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Abstract

For decades, there has been scanty evidence, most of which is of poor quality, to guide clinicians in the assessment and management of pneumothorax. A recent surge in pneumothorax research has begun to address controversies surrounding the topic and change the face of pneumothorax management. In this article, we review controversies concerning the etiology, pathogenesis, and classification of pneumothorax, and discuss recent advances in its management, including conservative and ambulatory management. We review the evidence base for the challenges of managing pneumothorax, including persistent air leak, and suggest new directions for future research that can help provide patient-centered, evidence-based management for this challenging cohort of patients.

Keywords

pneumothorax - pleural porosity - conservative management - ambulatory management - persistent air leak


Publication History

Article published online:
15 June 2023

© 2023. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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