Pneumothorax

There are two broad categories of pneumothorax: those that occur spontaneously and those that occur secondary to trauma, including by iatrogenic means. Dogs are more commonly affected by pneumothorax. The classic presentation of pneumothorax is a tachypneic or dyspneic patient with paradoxical breathing pattern and absent lung sounds on physical exam. Tension pneumothorax is rapidly fatal. Treatment of pneumothorax involves evacuation of pleural air by thoracocentesis or thoracostomy tubes. Prognosis largely depends on the underlying cause, but can be excellent.