Atelectasis Learning Center

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Welcome

Atelectasis is the collapse of part or all of a lung by blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles), or by very shallow breathing . See also pneumothorax .

Basic Info

Symptoms
Breathing difficulty; Chest pain; Cough.
Causes
Risk factors for atelectasis include anesthesia, prolonged bed rest with few changes in position, shallow breathing, an...
Tests
Chest x-ray; Bronchoscopy.
Treatments
The goal of treatment is to remove pulmonary (lung) secretions and re-expand the affected lung tissue. The following ar...
Drugs
  • No known drug therapy
Risk Factors
  • Abdominal Surgical Procedures
  • Administration of anesthesia
  • Chest Injury
Complications
Pneumonia may develop rapidly after atelectasis.
Prevention
Keep small objects out of the reach of young children; Maintain deep breathing after anesthesia; Encourage movement and...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of atelectasis.

Basic Info

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