‘Atelectasis’ during collapse therapy for pulmonary tuberculosis: A preliminary note

Abstract

A preliminary note on atelectasis during collapse therapy for pulmonary tuberculosis is presented. The implications are proposed to be the subject of a further communication by one of us (M. M. N.), in conjunction with A. J. Goello, relating these findings to thoracoscopic appearances. An explanation is given for the occurrence of atelectasis during collapse therapy by relating the phenomenon to changes in the draining bronchus where a cavity is present and in inflamed areas peripherally. The question of abandonment of the A.P. when atelectasis of a lobe occurs is one which cannot be answered merely on x-ray findings but is one in which clinical condition should play a great part. It would seem that a cavity in such an atelectatic, lobe is dangerous if collapse is maintained, but this has not been fully proved in this note. In so far as the occurrence of atelectasis when an A.P. is induced is predictable from the radiological appearances of patches of tuberculous pneumonitis in many cases, the question of whether or not an A.P. should be induced at all in such cases would seem to be relevant. Sequelae of the pathological changes described above would seem to mitigate against such an induction.