What is atelectasis?

Atelectasis is the : accumulation of mucus in a part of the lung, resulting in a collapse of the lung segment. May also be caused by a growth or infection .

What does a chest xray showing subsegmental atelectasis of the lingula mean?

Chest xray: that is usually a pretty benign chest X-ray finding and shouldn’t cause pain. How is subsegmental atelectasis of the lingula treated? Atelectasis is the : accumulation of mucus in a part of the lung, resulting in a collapse of the lung segment.

What does the lingula represent in anatomy?

The lingula represents an analog for the middle lobe of the right lung, which is absent in the left lung due to the position of the heart on the left side of the thoracic cavity. The lingula is located on the anterior side of the left lung, inferior to the cardiac notch and superior to the oblique fissure.

What is the lingula of the left lung?

Lingula of Lung. The lingula of the lung is a tongue-shaped region of the left lung. It is also known by its Latin name, lingula pulmonis sinistri, which means little tongue of the left lung. The lingula represents an analog for the middle lobe of the right lung, which is absent in the left lung due to the position of the heart on the left side…

Atelectasis (at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis) is a complete or partial collapse of the entire lung or area (lobe) of the lung. It occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) within the lung become deflated or possibly filled with alveolar fluid. Atelectasis is one of the most common breathing (respiratory) complications after surgery.

How is atelectasis caused?

Atelectasis, the collapse of part or all of a lung, is caused by a blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles) or by pressure on the lung. Risk factors for atelectasis include anesthesia, prolonged bed rest with few changes in position, shallow breathing and underlying lung disease.

What does atelectasis look like?

Atelectasis is usually seen on chest x-rays as small volume linear shadows, usually peripherally or at the lung bases. The underlying cause (such as a lung tumor or pleural effusion) may also be visible.

What is the treatment for Subsegmental atelectasis?

They include: Performing deep-breathing exercises (incentive spirometry) and using a device to assist with deep coughing may help remove secretions and increase lung volume. Positioning your body so that your head is lower than your chest (postural drainage).

Which type of atelectasis is the most common?

Obstructive atelectasis is the most common type and results from reabsorption of gas from the alveoli when communication between the alveoli and the trachea is obstructed. The obstruction can occur at the level of the larger or smaller bronchus.

Is atelectasis life threatening?

If enough of the lung is affected, your blood may not receive enough oxygen, which can cause health problems. Atelectasis often develops after surgery. It is not typically life-threatening, but in some cases, it needs to be treated quickly.

Can atelectasis cause back pain?

Symptoms of Atelectasis and Pneumothorax Sudden, sharp pain in the chest or radiating to the shoulder or back.

What is atelectasis of the lung?

Atelectasis (at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis) is a complete or partial collapse of the entire lung or area (lobe) of the lung. It occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) within the lung become deflated or possibly filled with alveolar fluid. Atelectasis is one of the most common breathing (respiratory) complications after surgery.

What are the signs and symptoms of atelectasis?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the collapse. There may be no obvious signs or symptoms of atelectasis. If you do have signs and symptoms, they may include: Always seek medical attention right away if you have trouble breathing.

What is compressive atelectasis?

Compressive atelectasis may result after a diaphragmatic hernia, when a part of an organ from the abdominal cavity goes into the chest cavity, near the lungs. Additionally, compressive atelectasis may occur when there is fluid or air in the lungs, also known as pleural effusion or pneumothorax .

What are the treatment options for atelectasis?

Atelectasis treatment can include breathing or coughing exercises, inhaled medicines, breathing devices, or surgery. Atelectasis usually gets better with time or treatment. However, if it is undiagnosed or untreated, serious complications can occur, including fluid buildup, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.