Semin intervent Radiol 2011; 28(2): 183-186
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1280661
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Pulmonary Radiofrequency Ablation Complicated by Tension Pneumothorax

Ben Moreno1 , Albert A. Nemcek1
  • 1Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
16 June 2011 (online)

ABSTRACT

Pneumothorax is a common complication of radiofrequency ablation of pulmonary lesions. During a treatment session, a moderate pneumothorax was initially managed by placement of a pigtail catheter. Due to technical considerations, ablation of the lesion was not performed; given resolution of the pneumothorax, the pigtail catheter was removed. However, after a short time, the patient's vital signs abruptly deteriorated and the diagnosis of tension pneumothorax was made clinically. A small-gauge catheter was emergently inserted with prompt improvement in the patient's condition, and a chest tube was subsequently placed via this access in the interventional department for definitive treatment.

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Albert A NemcekJr M.D. 

Department of Radiology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital

251 East Huron Street, Feinberg 4-710T, Chicago, IL 60611

Email: aan728@northwestern.edu