ISSN : 2663-2187

Large Pneumothorax in Blunt Chest Trauma: Is a Chest Drain Always Necessary in Stable Patients? A Cross Sectional Study

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Dr Muhammad Fawad, Dr Akhtar Ghani, Dr Waheed ur Rehman, Dr Ameer Hamza, Dr Muhammad Ahsan Ayaz, Dr Mehmood Khattak
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.16.2024.4410-4415

Abstract

Background Pneumothorax is a common consequence of blunt chest trauma, often managed with chest tube insertion to prevent respiratory complications. However, recent evidence suggests that in hemodynamically stable patients, conservative management may be a viable alternative. This study evaluates whether immediate chest drain insertion is always necessary in stable patients with large pneumothorax. Methods A ‘cross-sectional study was conducted at Bannu Medical College’ and its affiliated hospital, Bannu, from January 2023 to January 2024. A total of 89 patients with large pneumothorax due to blunt chest trauma were included. Patients were categorized into two groups: one managed with immediate chest tube insertion and the other observed conservatively. Clinical outcomes, including spontaneous resolution, need for delayed drainage, length of hospital stay, and complications, were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results Among the 89 patients, 41 were managed conservatively, while 48 underwent immediate chest tube placement. Spontaneous resolution of pneumothorax occurred in 73.2% of conservatively managed patients, while 19.5% eventually required delayed drainage. ‘The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the conservative group (4.3 ± 1.2 days) compared to the chest drain group (6.2 ± 1.4 days, p < 0.001)’. ‘Complication rates were slightly higher in the chest drain group (18.8%) than in the conservative group (12.2%), but the difference was not statistically significant’. Mortality was minimal, with only one case in the chest drain group. Conclusion The study findings suggest that in carefully selected stable patients with ‘large pneumothorax, conservative management can be a safe and effective alternative to routine chest tube insertion’. Avoiding unnecessary interventions may lead to shorter hospital stays and fewer complications. However, close monitoring remains essential, as a subset of patients may still require delayed drainage. Further research is needed to establish clearer guidelines for selecting patients suitable for non-invasive management.

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