This page was last modified on 12 March 2013, at 13:51.

Condition

Pneumothorax is a collection of air or gas in the chest or pleural space that causes part or all of a lung to collapse. A primary (simple) pneumothorax occurs spontaneously, often in healthy, tall, slender young men (20-40 yrs.). However, the pathophysiology is uncertain. There is a 30-50% risk for recurrence of the condition. The condition is considered benign.

A secondary (complicated) spontaneous pneumothorax can occur in patients with underlying pulmonary disease (e.g. COPD, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary infection) is more serious and often life threatening.

A traumatic (tension) pneumothorax may follow a chest trauma, requiring immediate treatment by tube thoracostomy.

 

Individual at risk

DONOR

 

Guidance at RECRUITMENT

UNACCEPTABLE in case of repeated primary pneumothorax or a secondary pneumothorax in medical history.

Evaluate donor’s current condition and underlying condition after a (single time) primary pneumothorax or traumatic pneumothorax. ACCEPT if appropriate.

 

Guidance at CT/WORK-UP

PERMANENTLY DEFER in case of repeated primary pneumothorax or a secondary pneumothorax in medical history.

Evaluate donor’s current condition and underlying condition after a (single time) primary pneumothorax or traumatic pneumothorax. ACCEPT if appropriate.

 

Justification for guidance

A history of pneumothorax may confer an additional risk for a donor undergoing general anaesthetic or requiring central line insertion.

 

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