The intrapleural volume threshold for ultrasound detection of pneumothoraxes

Objectives Small pneumothoraxes (PTXs) may not impart an immediate threat to trauma patients after chest injuries. However, if these patients require positive pressure ventilation even a small amount of pleural air may be relevant. Point-of-care lung ultrasonography (US) is a reliable tool in the diagnosis of PTX, but the performance characteristics regarding detection of miniscule PTXs needs to be defined. We aimed at finding the volume threshold of intrapleural air where PTXs confidently can be diagnosed.