Reexpansion pulmonary edema after pneumothorax.

Spontaneous pneumothorax is a common disorder that is easily recognized and treated. Occasionally reexpansion of the collapsed lung is complicated by unilateral pulmonary edema, heralded by tachypnea, unilateral rales, and profuse expectoration of frothy secretions within several hours of reexpansion. Severe morbidity and death may result. Increased duration of pneumothorax and the use of suction are important factors in the generation of reexpansion pulmonary edema. Increased pulmonary capillary permeability rather than hydrostatic transudation is believed to underlie its development. For patients with pneumothorax of prolonged duration close observation in an intensive care unit for 24 hours after evacuation of air and the routine use of supplemental oxygen during and after lung reexpansion seem indicated.