![]() The degree of lung tissue involved is variable, depending on the underlying cause. ![]() These include hypoxaemia, reduced lung compliance, pulmonary infections, and acute respiratory failure. In atelectasis, the reduced airway expansion and subsequent accumulation of pulmonary secretions will predispose patients to developing pulmonary complications. 1), alveolar gas resorption intra-operatively, and impairment of surfactant production. However, current theories suggest that airway collapse is due to a combination of airway compression (Fig. The pathophysiology of atelectasis is not fully understood. In this article, we shall look at the risk factors, clinical features and management of atelectasis. It is a clinically important condition as it is often a precursor or contributor to other important, and often more severe, post-operative pulmonary complications. The majority of post-operative patients will develop some degree of atelectasis, resulting in abnormal alterations in lung function or compromise to the lung’s immune defences. Atelectasis refers to a partial collapse of the small airways.
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