Other complications

Pneumothorax occurs when air leaks from damaged air sacs and collects in the space around the lungs causing the collapse of the lung on the affected side. Gas exchange can be affected in both lungs and can result in respiratory failure.

Tension pneumothorax occurs when a large air leak exerts pressure on the opposite lung and the heart compressing both. If severe the heart can be seriously affect and consequently the baby’s condition can deteriorate. Babies requiring ventilatory assistance and those with meconium aspiration syndrome have a higher risk of tension pneumothorax.

A pneumothorax is treated by placing a drain into the chest cavity to allow the trapped air to be released. The drain can be removed once the air leak from the lung has healed.