Management of Lung Collapse in Children by Non-invasive Method

Background and Objectives: Collapse or defective expansion of lung is a non-specific complication of some pulmonary disorders which is commonly seen in patients admitted to PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit). This disorder can deteriorate the patients' respiratory condition and result in respiratory failure by increased work of breathing, hypoxemia and hypercapnea. The purpose of this study is to establish non-invasive treatment of lung collapse for children who admitted in PICU of Tabriz Children's hospital. Methods and materials: During a period of 6 months (from march to october 2004) a prospective study carried out on 24 children suffering from lung collapse who received non-invasive treatment; which mainly consists of postural drainage, chest physiotherapy and inhalation of aerosols (fluid as floating particles in air) and bronchodilators. Results: All 24 studied patients with the average age of 24 months, responded to this treatment within the average duration of 3.7 days, as collapsed area of lung reexpanded. Conclusion: Because of simplicity and easy availability of this method of treatment and also its efficacy and scientific base, it can substitute bronchoscopic treatment and its usage be generalized to small hospitals.