Complications After Pneumothorax Drainage: Symptoms and Recovery

Pneumothorax tube insertion leading to hemothorax?

Hello, my sister was admitted to the emergency room on June 19 due to a left spontaneous pneumothorax.
An X-ray showed two small white spots, so the emergency physician recommended a drainage procedure to remove the gas.
However, during the procedure, it led to a massive aortic hemorrhage, and her entire left lung collapsed.
She underwent two emergency surgeries (through an incision in the left axilla) to save her life.
Now she often coughs (to the point where her stomach hurts, and sometimes she coughs so hard she feels like vomiting), experiences frequent sharp pains in her left chest, has persistent numbness in the left chest area, and the drainage site is healing very slowly.
Additionally, she has two stents placed in her aorta and needs to take aspirin long-term, so she cannot exert herself too much.
Are these symptoms normal? How long will it take to recover? The doctors during follow-up visits say there are no issues and not to worry.
Will there be any problems if she wants to become pregnant? Thank you for your assistance.

Xiao Ke, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/19

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology

Based on the description, the patient may experience changes such as pleural adhesions, pulmonary fibrosis, and decreased lung function following a major surgery on the left chest, which could be related to the symptoms mentioned and should be discussed with a physician.
Regarding pregnancy, if there are no reproductive system issues, conception is still possible; however, if there is decreased cardiopulmonary function, the risks during pregnancy may increase, so it is advisable to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2011/07/19

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your sister's medical history and current symptoms. It sounds like she has been through a very challenging experience with her spontaneous pneumothorax and subsequent complications. Let’s break down her situation and address your concerns regarding her symptoms, recovery, and future health considerations.

Understanding Symptoms After Pneumothorax Drainage
1. Coughing and Chest Pain: It is not uncommon for patients who have undergone a pneumothorax drainage procedure to experience persistent coughing and chest pain. The irritation of the lungs and surrounding tissues during the procedure can lead to inflammation, which may cause discomfort and a cough that can be painful. If the cough is severe enough to cause stomach pain or vomiting, it may be worth discussing with her physician to rule out any underlying issues or to explore potential treatments to alleviate the cough.

2. Numbness and Pain in the Chest: The sensation of numbness and pain in the left chest could be related to nerve irritation or damage during the drainage procedure. The healing process can take time, and while some discomfort may persist, it is essential to monitor these symptoms. If they worsen or do not improve over time, further evaluation may be necessary.

3. Slow Healing of the Drain Site: The healing of the drainage site can vary from person to person. Factors such as overall health, nutrition, and the presence of any complications (like infection) can influence healing. If the wound is not healing properly or shows signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, or discharge), she should seek medical attention.

Recovery Timeline
Recovery from a pneumothorax drainage procedure can take several weeks to months, depending on the individual’s health status and any complications that may have arisen. Given that your sister experienced significant complications, including aortic bleeding and the placement of stents, her recovery may take longer than average. It is crucial for her to follow up regularly with her healthcare provider to monitor her progress and address any concerns.

Concerns About Future Pregnancy
Regarding your sister's desire to become pregnant, it is essential to consult with her healthcare provider. Generally, if she is stable and her heart condition is well-managed, pregnancy may be possible. However, given her history of aortic stenting and the need for long-term aspirin therapy, she should have a thorough discussion with her cardiologist and obstetrician. They can provide personalized advice based on her overall health, the stability of her heart condition, and any potential risks associated with pregnancy.

Conclusion
In summary, while some of your sister's symptoms may be typical following a pneumothorax drainage, it is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare team. If her symptoms persist or worsen, or if she has concerns about her recovery or future pregnancy, she should not hesitate to seek further evaluation. Recovery can be a gradual process, and addressing any complications early on can lead to better outcomes. Wishing your sister a smooth recovery and good health ahead!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Pneumothorax Recovery: Common Concerns and Symptoms

Hello, doctor. I underwent a chest tube insertion surgery yesterday due to a pneumothorax caused by acupuncture. I am currently using underwater drainage with the chest tube. This morning, I used a wall suction device and have been experiencing difficulty breathing and severe che...

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology
Hello, the question you raised requires clinical judgment and should be assessed by your physician. Please direct your inquiries to your healthcare provider. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chou-Tzu-Kuang.

Can You Fly After Recovering from Pneumothorax Drainage?

Hello, Doctor! My husband experienced chest pain on March 8 and was diagnosed with a pneumothorax. Due to the large size of the pneumothorax, the doctor recommended immediate chest tube insertion for drainage and pure oxygen therapy. After about 2-3 days of treatment, the lung st...

Dr. Shen Bochan reply Pulmonology
Hello: Not recommended.

Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Pneumothorax Treatment

Hello doctor, I recently had surgery for a pneumothorax on my right chest. After the drainage tube was removed, I went home to rest. I feel pain when I touch the area near the incision, and it feels swollen. The skin in the painful area is also red. Is this a postoperative compli...

Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: You may need to return for a follow-up appointment for the physician to assess whether there is an infection.

Understanding Symptoms and Recovery After Spontaneous Pneumothorax Surgery

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have a spontaneous pneumothorax, and before I was aware of it, I experienced symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, shortness of breath, and tightness in my neck. Are these symptoms associa...

Dr. Qu Changke reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao He: The common symptoms of pneumothorax include chest pain and shortness of breath, although some patients may be asymptomatic and discover the condition during a physical examination. This means that symptoms can vary from person to person. Typically, symptoms will i...