From the Guidelines
Atelectasis is a condition where part of the lung collapses or becomes airless due to blockage of the airways or pressure on the lung, and it is crucial to address it promptly to prevent further complications, as highlighted in a study on respiratory care of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy 1. Atelectasis occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs deflate or fill with fluid, preventing normal oxygen exchange. It can be caused by several factors, including:
- Mucus plugs blocking airways
- Tumors
- Foreign objects
- External pressure from fluid, air, or swelling around the lungs It may also develop after surgery, especially chest or abdominal procedures, due to shallow breathing from pain or anesthesia effects. Symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Low oxygen levels Though some cases produce no symptoms.
Prevention and Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and severity, ranging from:
- Breathing exercises and incentive spirometry
- Chest physiotherapy
- Bronchoscopy to remove blockages
- Addressing underlying conditions Deep breathing, early mobilization after surgery, and proper positioning can help prevent atelectasis, especially in hospitalized patients or those with limited mobility, as suggested by a study on mechanical ventilation in adult patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome 1.
Key Considerations
A study on diagnosis and initial management of nonmalignant diseases related to asbestos also highlights the importance of recognizing rounded atelectasis, a condition that may be mistaken for a tumor 1. In summary, atelectasis is a serious condition that requires prompt attention, and its prevention and treatment should be tailored to the individual patient's needs, taking into account the underlying cause and severity of the condition, as well as the patient's overall health status, as emphasized by the most recent and highest quality study on the topic 1.
From the Research
Definition of Atelectasis
- Atelectasis is a state of collapsed and non-aerated region of the lung parenchyma, which is otherwise normal 2.
- This condition is usually associated with several pulmonary and chest disorders and represents a manifestation of the underlying disease, not a disease per se.
Causes of Atelectasis
- Atelectasis may occur in three ways:
- Airway obstruction
- Compression of parenchyma by extrathoracic, intrathoracic, chest wall processes
- Increased surface tension in alveoli and bronchioli 2
Diagnosis of Atelectasis
- Chest radiographs using both the anterior-posterior and lateral projections are mandatory to document the presence of atelectasis 2
- Differentiation from lobar consolidation may be a clinical dilemma
Treatment of Atelectasis
- The treatment of atelectasis varies depending on duration and severity of the causal disease 2
- Treatment options include:
- Chest physiotherapy
- Postural drainage
- Bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory therapy
- Removal of persistent mucous plugs by bronchoscopy
- Conservative oxygen therapy (COT) may also be associated with decreased radiological evidence of atelectasis, earlier weaning from mandatory ventilation modes, and earlier first trial of spontaneous ventilation 3