Atelectasis refers to the state of the whole or part of a lung is compacted and airless. Atelectasis may be acute or chronic. Acute massive pulmonary atelectasis is often a complication after surgeries such as upper abdomen surgery, pneumonectomy and cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. A large area of the lung is obstructed and compacted within a short period of time. Symptoms include significant chest pain of the affected side, sudden difficulty breathing, cyanosis, drop in blood pressure, fast heartbeat, fever, or even shock. Symptoms are more severe if infection exists. Treatment depends on the cause and severity.
How is Atelectasis treated in practice?