The Invisible Threat That Leaves You Breathless—A Literature Review on Pneumothorax in the Emergency Department

• DOI: 10.3390/ecm2020024
• Publication Date: 2025-05-02T11:44:58Z
• Authors: Silvia Fattori; Gabriele Bellio; Matteo Maria Cimino; Hayato Kurihara

Pneumothoraces are a common and potentially severe condition in the emergency setting. Various pathophysiological mechanisms (spontaneous traumatic) could be involved, consequently defining diagnostic–therapeutic pathway. Understanding these underlying etiologies is essential for advancing diagnostic strategies guiding therapeutic measures. Recent insights into focus on role of ultrasound effectiveness small-bore chest tubes managing all types pneumothoraces with reduced risk complications. Moreover, observation emerging as possible conservative approach hemodynamically stable patients regardless etiology pneumothorax. This review aims to provide valuable resource improve management, comparing traditional methods promising, less invasive interventions.