Atelectasis

Overview

Atelectasis, pronounced “at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis,” refers to the partial or complete collapse of a lung or a specific lobe within the lung. This condition occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) fail to properly inflate, leading to impaired gas exchange and reduced oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

Types of Atelectasis

1. Resorptive or Obstructive Atelectasis:

   • Description: This type results from physical blockage within the airways.
   • Causes:
     • Mucus buildup: Accumulation of secretions due to infections or surgery.
     • Infection: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections leading to scarred lung tissue.
     • Foreign objects: Accidental inhalation of small items.
     • Tumors: Abnormal growths obstructing airflow.
     • Blood clots: Excessive bleeding causing airway blockage.

2. Compressive Atelectasis:

   • Description: External pressure compresses lung tissue, expelling air from alveoli.
   • Common Causes:
     • Large pneumothorax (air accumulation in the pleural space).
     • Thoracic space-occupying lesions.

3. Contraction Atelectasis:

   • Description: Results from lung scarring (cicatricial atelectasis).

Causes of Atelectasis

Causes

Atelectasis can occur due to various factors:

• Physical Blockage:
  • Mucus accumulation.
  • Inhaled foreign objects.
  • Tumors within the airway.
• External Pressure:
  • Tumors pressing on the airway.
  • Deformed bones.
  • Tight braces or body casts.
  • Pleural effusion (fluid accumulation) or pneumothorax (air between lung and chest wall).

Risk Factors of Atelectasis

1. Underlying Lung Conditions:

   • Individuals with lung diseases such as asthma, bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis are at higher risk for atelectasis.
   • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also contribute to lung collapse.

2. Advanced Age:

   • Older adults are more susceptible to atelectasis due to changes in lung elasticity and decreased respiratory muscle strength.

3. Obesity:

   • Being overweight increases the risk of atelectasis, especially when combined with other factors.

4. Smoking History:

   • Former or current smokers have a higher likelihood of developing atelectasis.

5. Anesthesia and Surgery:

   • Recent surgery in the stomach area or chest can lead to lung collapse.
   • Anesthesia during surgery can cause atelectasis, especially if the patient is unable to take deep breaths afterward.

6. Immobility:

   • Prolonged bed rest without sufficient changes in position can contribute to lung collapse.
   • Patients who are bedridden for extended periods are at risk.

Symptoms of Atelectasis

Preventions of Atelectasis

To prevent atelectasis:

• Encourage movement and deep breathing, especially for bedridden individuals.
• Keep small objects away from young children.
• Practice deep breathing after anesthesia.

Diagnosis of Atelectasis

Atelectasis is typically diagnosed using:

• Chest X-ray: Visualizes lung and airway abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: Rule out infections.
• Oximetry: Measures oxygen saturation.
• Sputum Culture/Cytology: Identifies causative organisms.
• CT Scan: Provides detailed imaging.
• Bronchoscopy: Visualizes and removes obstructions.

Treatment for Atelectasis

Treatment depends on severity:

• Breathing Exercises: Improve lung function.
• Address Underlying Cause:
  • Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation for tumors.
  • Medications (e.g., antibiotics for pneumonia).
• Procedures:
  • Lobectomy (for tumor-related atelectasis).
  • Mucus suctioning.
• Therapy:
  • Chest physical therapy.
  • Oxygen therapy.

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek medical help if you experience symptoms of atelectasis or have risk factors such as recent surgery or lung diseases.