Comparison of the tube thoracostomy techniques on treatment in COVID-19 patients with pneumothorax

Abstract

Aim: Tube thoracostomy is an interventional procedure in which there is a high risk for the spread of COVID-19. In this study, we compare the tube thoracostomy procedures performed early on in the pandemic and those performed later after steps were taken in accordance with the new recommendations. Material and Method:It is a retrospective and single-center study. COVID-19 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax with indications for tube thoracostomy presented to our emergency department between March 10, 2020, and March 31, 2021. Based on the applied tube techniques, two groups were defined; group 1, patients who underwent classical tube thoracostomy, group 2, patients who underwent tube thoracostomy with the recommended preventive measures for COVID-19. The collected data were compared between the two groups.Results: 106 patients met the study criteria and were included in the study. The difference in the length of the tube duration time between the old or new technique was statistically significant (p < 0.05), no difference was identified in the duration of stay, intensive care unit admission, or mortality compared with the two techniques. Conclusions:In this study, the new measures recommended for tube thoracostomy were found to be effective for the treatment of patients.

Analysis of the factors that affect survival among patients who developed subcutaneous emphysema monitored on COVID-19 diagnosis: single-centred research

“…The COVID-19 patients with pulmonary involvement frequently develop pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema (8). The severe COVID-19 patients monitorized by invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation and positive pressure devices (9).…”

“…The severe COVID-19 patients monitorized by invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation and positive pressure devices (9). Especially in patients with parenchymal involvement, there may appear life-threatening complications such as barotrauma-related pneumothorax, haemothorax, pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema (8)(9)(10). Subcutaneous emphysema is defined as abnormal level of air and gas in subcutaneous tissues.…”