Microcatheter aspiration of spontaneous pneumothoraces in an emergency department

Abstract

Objective: To assess the efficacy of microcatheter aspiration (MCA) of spontaneous pneumothoraces in the Emergency Department of Fremantle Hospital. Methods: From 1986–1993, patients less than 45 years old with a first spontaneous pneumothorax on chest X‐ray of greater than 20% were treated with MCA. Those with underlying lung disease or tension were excluded. MCA was performed with a 16G central venous pressure catheter. Patients were reassessed radiologically at six and 24 hours. The procedure was considered successful if there was less than 15% residual pneumothorax after aspiration and at 24 hours. Results: Of thirty patients studied, 22 (73%) had successful aspiration and were discharge..