What does segmental atelectasis mean?

Segmental atelectasis (plural: atelectases) refers to collapse of one or several segments of a lung lobe. It is a morphological subtype of lung atelectasis.

What does focal atelectasis mean?

Atelectasis (at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis) is a complete or partial collapse of the entire lung or area (lobe) of the lung. It occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) within the lung become deflated or possibly filled with alveolar fluid. Atelectasis is one of the most common breathing (respiratory) complications after surgery.

What causes segmental atelectasis?

Atelectasis is caused by a blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles) or by pressure on the outside of the lung. Atelectasis is not the same as another type of collapsed lung called pneumothorax, which occurs when air escapes from the lung.

How do you treat atelectasis?

Mild atelectasis may go away without treatment….Chest physiotherapy

  1. Performing deep-breathing exercises (incentive spirometry) and using a device to assist with deep coughing may help remove secretions and increase lung volume.
  2. Positioning your body so that your head is lower than your chest (postural drainage).

Can atelectasis cause back pain?

But if a larger area of the lung is affected, atelectasis can cause fever, shallow breathing, wheezing, or coughing. In severe cases, you may even experience sharp chest pain that radiates to the shoulders or the back.

Should atelectasis be treated?

Mild atelectasis may go away without treatment. Sometimes, medications are used to loosen and thin mucus. If the condition is due to a blockage, surgery or other treatments may be needed.

Will atelectasis go away?

What does atelectasis mean on a CT scan?

Atelectasis refers to either incomplete expansion of the lungs or the collapse of previously inflated lungs, which produces areas of relatively airless pulmonary parenchyma.