Pulmonary air leaks in the newborn period.

Pneumothorax is common and frequently life threatening in the newborn. Other air leaks although less common are often more difficult to treat. Anticipation by close clinical and electronic monitoring of all newborn babies with pulmonary problems allows earlier detection with a greater chance of satisfactory treatment. The long-term outlook is good except after severe pulmonary interstitial emphysema when considerable pulmonary damage usually occurs.