Comparison of Angiocatheter and Thorax Tube in the Treatment of Pneumothorax in Newborn Patients

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Aim: In pneumothorax, which is one of the life-threatening emergencies, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to reduce complications and mortality. Treatment is provided by evacuation of air from the pleural space with underwater drainage using needle thoracentesis or fine catheter and tube thoracostomy techniques. Material and Methods: Between March 2014 and March 2021, neonatal intensive care unit medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and newborns with pneumothorax were evaluated. Information about drainage methods, duration of treatment, efficacy of treatment and complications were obtained. The patients were divided into two groups. A chest tube was placed in the patients in the first group, and a venous catheter was placed in the patients in the second group. Results: Pneumothorax was detected in 1.85% (n:23) of 1242 patients in our neonatal intensive care unit. Eight patients underwent tube thoracostomy and 12 patients underwent underwater sealed drainage with venous catheter, while three patients resolved spontaneously. Conclusion: Tube thoracostomy in neonatal pneumothorax may lead to serious complications especially in extremely premature babies. It is not possible for someone who does not have experience in this field to do this operation. In addition, since the surgical procedure requires a certain period of time, the patient may worsen during the procedure. In order to eliminate the disadvantages of tube thoracostomy, it is possible to evacuate the air in the pleural space with a simple method, especially in the treatment of neonatal pneumothorax by using a branula.