Electrocardiographic changes with right-sided pneumothorax.

Pneumothorax is a well-known complication of central line placement in the intensive care unit. Other causes include spontaneous pneumothorax, trauma, and infection. Most frequently, dyspnea or respiratory decompensation raises suspicion for pneumothorax, especially after central line placement. The diagnosis is confirmed by physical examination and chest radiography. We present five cases of right-sided pneumothorax in which electrocardiographic findings resolved with reexpansion of the lung. A new finding is reported in two cases.