Utilization of ultrasound for the detection of pneumothorax in the neonatal special-care nursery.

Pneumothorax is a potentially life-threatening condition in the setting of the neonatal special-care nursery (SCN) that may result in rapid deterioration and death. The familiar appearances associated with pneumothorax on AP supine chest radiograph are highly specific, but limited in sensitivity. In this case report, we describe the theory and technique of thoracic ultrasound for detection of pneumothorax in the SCN, providing a viable alternative to the cross-table lateral radiograph without ionising radiation, with highly accurate results, and with minimal patient positioning.