Bilateral pneumothoraces from a malfunctioning resuscitation valve

J Clin Anesth. 1993 Sep-Oct;5(5):433-5. doi: 10.1016/0952-8180(93)90111-q.

Abstract

Disposable resuscitation valves appear as relatively simple devices used to ventilate patients during both emergent situations and transport from the operating room to the intensive care unit. We report a case of a nonfunctional disposable resuscitation valve that resulted in barotrauma and bilateral pneumothoraces. A routine check for proper function of these valves before use in critically ill patients may help to eliminate such cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Barotrauma / etiology*
  • Disposable Equipment*
  • Equipment Failure
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pneumothorax / etiology*
  • Resuscitation*