Week 3 - Atelectasis Flashcards
1
Q
What is atelectasis?
A
Section of alveoli in the lungs collapses
2
Q
Obstructive atelectasis
A
Mucus plug (COPD or Cystic Fibrosis)
Foreign body
Tumor
3
Q
Non-obstructive atelectasis
A
Most commonly caused by anesthesia
Compressive - pneumothorax, hernia
Contraction - scar tissue]
Adhesive - surfactant deficiency
4
Q
Treatment for atelectasis
A
Dependent on severity and type
*deep-breathing exercises
*oxygen supplementation
*bronchoscopy suction
*nebulized bronchodilators
*surgery, radiation or chemotherapy
5
Q
Why is atelectasis a problem?
A
- Decreased tidal volume
- Reduced gas exchange -> reduced O2 and increased CO2 (hypoxia / hypoaxaemia and hypercapnia)
- Effects of hypercapnia / respiratory acidosis
- Decreased lung compliance
- Increased work of breathing -> fatigue
- Hypoxia causes pulmonary arteries to constrict -> increased pulmonary vascular resistance (pressure) which can lead to right sided heart failure - due to increased pressure in pulmonary vascular system.
