Atelectasis

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Bronchoscopy Lungs Respiratory system

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Atelectasis

The goal of treatment is to remove pulmonary (lung) secretions and re-expand the affected lung tissue.

The following treatments may be implemented:

• Aerosolized respiratory treatments
• Positioning on the unaffected side to allow re-expansion of lung
• Removal of the obstruction, if present, by bronchoscopy or another procedure
• Deep breathing exercises (incentive spirometry)
• Percussion of the chest to loosen secretions (clapping)
• Positioning so that secretions drain by gravity where they can be coughed up (postural drainage)
• Treatment of tumor or underlying condition, if present

The collapsed lung usually re-inflates gradually once the obstruction has been removed, although some residual scarring or damage may be present.

Pneumonia may develop rapidly after atelectasis.

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of atelectasis.

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