CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the standard surgical treatment for a pneumothorax?

1. Administration of oxygen

2. Insertion of a chest tube

3. Surgical removal of the lung

4. Thoracentesis

The correct answer is: Insertion of a chest tube

The standard surgical treatment for a pneumothorax is the insertion of a chest tube. A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. The primary goal in managing a pneumothorax is to remove the excess air to allow the lung to re-expand and function normally. Inserting a chest tube creates a pathway for the trapped air to escape from the pleural cavity. Once the chest tube is placed, it can be connected to a suction device that helps to create negative pressure in the pleural space. This facilitates the re-expansion of the lung by allowing air and fluid to be evacuated effectively, thus improving respiratory function and alleviating distress. While administration of oxygen can help to improve oxygenation and may relieve some symptoms, it does not address the underlying issue of air in the pleural space. Thoracentesis, which involves inserting a needle into the pleural cavity to remove fluid or air, is typically a temporary measure and may be insufficient for larger or more complex pneumothoraces. Surgical removal of the lung is an extreme and unnecessary procedure for a pneumothorax and is not considered the standard treatment. Thus, the insertion of a chest tube represents the most effective and widely accepted