| Front | What is a tension pneumothorax? |
|---|---|
| Back | This conditions occurs when there is significant ongoing air accumulation in the pleural space. This air gradually increases the pressure in the chest, first causing the complete collapse of the affected lung and then pushing the mediastinum (the central part of the chest containing the heart and great vessels) into opposite pleural cavity. This prevents blood from returning through the venae cavae to the heart, ultimately leading to shock and death. |
Tags: 27, chest, injuries
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