# Trapped Lung and Pneumothorax Ex Vacuo

## TL;DR

This paper discusses trapped lung and pneumothorax ex vacuo, which happen when lungs don't expand after draining fluid from the chest cavity.

## Contribution

The paper provides a clinical overview of diagnosis and management strategies for these rare post-drainage complications.

## Key findings

- Trapped lung and pneumothorax ex vacuo are rare complications after large pleural effusion drainage.
- Asymptomatic patients may not require immediate treatment, while symptomatic cases often need surgery.
- Iatrogenic pneumothorax typically requires chest tube placement for resolution.

## Abstract

Trapped lung and pneumothorax ex vacuo occur due to failure of lungs to re‐expand after drainage of a large pleural effusion. Asymptomatic patients can be observed while symptomatic patients may need surgical decortication. Iatrogenic pneumothorax results from introduction of air into the pleural space and usually requires chest tube placement.