What is the typical treatment for a tension pneumothorax?

The typical treatment for a tension pneumothorax is a combination of needle decompression followed by tube thoracostomy. This approach addresses the life-threatening condition where air accumulates in the pleural space under pressure, compressing the lung and potentially leading to respiratory and cardiovascular compromise.

Needle decompression is performed as an immediate intervention to relieve the pressure in the thoracic cavity. It involves inserting a large-bore needle into the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line, allowing trapped air to escape and thus restoring normal intrathoracic pressure. This procedure is vital for stabilizing the patient before definitive treatment.

Following needle decompression, a tube thoracostomy (chest tube insertion) is typically indicated. This allows for continuous drainage of air (or fluid, if present) from the pleural space, facilitating lung re-expansion and preventing recurrence of the tension pneumothorax.

Other treatment options do not address the immediate need to alleviate the dangerous pressure from the pleural space. Providing oxygen and IV fluids, while supportive in some contexts, does not directly resolve the pneumothorax. Similarly, simply obtaining a chest X-ray and observing the patient would delay necessary interventions, and initiating CPR is not