Management of spontaneous pneumothorax during pregnancy: case report and review of the literature

Mayo Clin Proc. 1996 Mar;71(3):249-52. doi: 10.4065/71.3.249.

Abstract

Spontaneous pneumothorax rarely occurs during pregnancy. Only 22 nonmalignancy-related cases have been previously published. Herein we report a case of recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax during the third trimester of pregnancy that necessitated surgical intervention. At thoracotomy, a large bulla was excised from the lower lobe of the right lung; abrasive pleurodesis was subsequently done. Postoperatively, the patient had regular contractions, which were successfully stopped with intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate. Indications, procedures, and pre-cautions for operative intervention during pregnancy are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pneumothorax / surgery*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / surgery*
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Third
  • Recurrence