G M Waitches1, E J Stern, T J Dubinsky. 1. Department of Radiology, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington, Seattle 98104, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: We describe a new sign improving detection of pneumothorax in patients with giant bullous emphysema: air surrounding both sides of the bulla wall (the intrathoracic equivalent of the double-wall sign of pneumoperitoneum). We report the radiographic and CT appearances of the double-wall sign in seven patients with giant bullous emphysema, four of whom had pneumothorax. CONCLUSION: Recognizing the double-wall sign of pneumothorax should aid in the triage of patients with giant bullous emphysema.
OBJECTIVE: We describe a new sign improving detection of pneumothorax in patients with giant bullous emphysema: air surrounding both sides of the bulla wall (the intrathoracic equivalent of the double-wall sign of pneumoperitoneum). We report the radiographic and CT appearances of the double-wall sign in seven patients with giant bullous emphysema, four of whom had pneumothorax. CONCLUSION: Recognizing the double-wall sign of pneumothorax should aid in the triage of patients with giant bullous emphysema.