Atelectasis is defined as a state in which the lung, in whole or in part, is collapsed or without air.Medical Terminology Systems: A Body Systems Approach, 2005 It is a condition where the alveoli are deflated, as distinct from pulmonary consolidation.

Causes

The most common cause is post-surgical atelectasis is splinting, restricted breathing after abdominal surgery. Smokers and the elderly are at an increased risk. Outside of this context, atelectasis implies some blockage of a bronchiole or bronchus, which can be within the airway (foreign body, mucus plug), from the wall (tumor, usually SCC) or compressing from the outside (tumor, lymph node, tubercle).

Symptoms

• cough, but not prominent
• chest pain (rare)
• breathing difficulty
• low oxygen saturation

Diagnosis

• chest X-ray

Post-surgical atelectasis will be bibasal in pattern.

Treatment

As per the underlying cause. Post-surgical atelectasis is treated by physiotherapy, focusing on deep breathing and encouraging coughing. Atelectasis does not require antibiotics. Ambulation is also highly encouraged to improve lung inflation.

Footnotes

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Incentive Spirometer is also used to prevent or help treat atelectasis after surgery.

References

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External links

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Diseases

Atelectasia | Atelectase