Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Abstract

A single episode of spontaneous pneumothorax in a young healthy adult is seldom a grave therapeutic problem. However, if the pneumothorax is large or recurrent, or if the patient is elderly or has serious underlying lung disease, the situation is more serious. In these altered circumstances opinion differs as to the best method to effect and maintain full lung expansion. Dr. Katz favors prompt drainage and describes surgical and nonsurgical methods of producing pleural symphysis. When more conservative methods fail, Dr. Adkins prefers to avoid pleurectomy in his surgical approach to maintaining an expanded lung. These two experts agree more than they differ, and the physician will be helped rather than confused by what they say.