Management of pneumothorax with oxygen therapy: a case series

Pneumothorax is relatively common condition affecting individuals of all ages. Goals of treatment of pneumothorax are removal of air from the pleural cavity and prevent its recurrence. The different strategies available at the disposal of the treating physician include observation, supplemental oxygen administration, needle aspiration, insertion of small bore chest drains and last but definitely not the least, surgery in recurrent cases. Oxygen therapy is useful in the treatment of all types of pneumothorax where it is found to be safe, effective and associated with reduced length of hospital stay. Four cases of pneumothoraces are presented here which were successfully managed with supplemental oxygen administration only.