Pneumothorax.

In brief A pneumothorax can accompany high-energy trauma, penetrating injury, or nonpenetrating impact, and spontaneous pneumothorax is common. No matter what the cause of the pneumothorax, however, rapid diagnosis is of utmost importance because this injury is a true on-field medical emergency. The key to expedient diagnosis is proper recognition of chest pain, dyspnea, and other telltale signs and symptoms. Auscultation and x-rays are usually required for a definitive diagnosis. Prompt treatment can help save the patient's life and includes maintaining the airway and monitoring vital signs. Often, tube thoracostomy is required to completely resolve the injury.