Estimating the rate of re-expansion of spontaneous pneumothorax by a formula derived from computed tomography volumetry studies

Abstract

Background: Available evidence suggesting that the rate of re-expansion of spontaneous pneumothorax is 1.25%/day is based on a small sample and mathematical modelling-based estimates. Aim: To estimate the rate of re-expansion of spontaneous pneumothoraces by a formula derived from computed tomography volumetry studies. Methods: This retrospective study included adult patients with spontaneous pneumothorax, identified from patient management databases, who were treated conservatively. Medical records were reviewed to confirm that no intervention such as aspiration or catheter drainage had occurred. Radiographs were reviewed independently by two researchers and measured according to the method..