Tension pneumothorax at anaesthetic induction in an ex-premature infant with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

ME, a 12-week-old premature infant with a history of complicated ventilatory support at birth, was referred to as a large tertiary centre for urgent retinal laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity. Following routine induction by a consultant paediatric anaesthetist, immediate ventilation difficulties were encountered, associated with a distended abdomen. Rapid assessment and escalation of the situation occurred, including assistance from several consultants. ME was diagnosed as having a pneumothorax. Rapid intervention, including needle decompression and insertion of a chest drain stabilised the patient. The procedure was cancelled, and the patient returned to intensive care. Over the next few days the patient gradually improved, and was gradually stepped down. The patient continued to improve, successfully overcoming the pneumothorax, pneumonia and insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, and eventually was discharged back to the referring hospital.