Current Management Strategies for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Abstract

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax is a distressing condition which affects young healthy patients. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax and look to the future with the advent of studies that will have global impact in the area. Recent research has taken a step back from immediate invasive interventions which can confine a patient to a hospital bed, exploring instead alternative approaches such as ambulatory management or observation. When managing primary spontaneous pneumothoraces acutely, rather than opting for aggressive chest tube drainage, clinicians are encouraged to consider less invasive management options such as conservative observation, aspiration, or insertion of pleural vents. An assessment of the underlying cause of primary spontaneous pneumothorax is essential. Similarly, the clinician must evaluate the risk of recurrence as this influences onward management. In the next few years, we expect further exciting developments emerge that will illuminate these issues further.