From the Research
Subsegmental atelectasis generally does not need to be reported in radiology findings unless it is extensive, persistent, or clinically significant. These small areas of lung collapse are common incidental findings on chest imaging and are often transient, resolving spontaneously without intervention. They frequently occur in patients who are bedridden, post-operative, or have shallow breathing patterns. When subsegmental atelectasis is minimal and appears to be an incidental finding without clinical correlation to the patient's symptoms, reporting it may create unnecessary concern and lead to additional testing that provides no benefit. However, if the atelectasis is extensive, involves multiple segments, persists on follow-up imaging, or correlates with the patient's clinical presentation, it should be reported. In these cases, treatment may include incentive spirometry, chest physiotherapy, or addressing the underlying cause, as seen in studies such as 1, which highlights the importance of considering the clinical context of atelectasis. The decision to report should ultimately be based on clinical judgment regarding the significance of the finding in the context of the individual patient's condition, taking into account the potential for atelectasis to impact patient recovery, as discussed in 2. It's also worth noting that the mechanisms of atelectasis, including resorption, adhesive, passive, compressive, cicatrization, and gravity-dependent atelectasis, can inform the approach to reporting and managing subsegmental atelectasis, as outlined in 3. Overall, the approach to reporting subsegmental atelectasis should prioritize the patient's clinical context and the potential impact on their morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Some key points to consider when deciding whether to report subsegmental atelectasis include:
- The extent and persistence of the atelectasis
- The presence of clinical symptoms or correlation with the patient's presentation
- The potential for atelectasis to impact patient recovery or outcome
- The availability of effective treatments, such as incentive spirometry or chest physiotherapy, as discussed in 4 and 5.