Infant With Acute Bilateral Pneumothorax During Air Transport

Abstract

In rural settings, medically complicated patients may require air transport to facilities that are capable of providing higher levels of care. Extra consideration must be given to pulmonary pathologies when considering this mode of transport. Altitude changes impact both air pressure and volume as described by Boyle's law. These changes can complicate the care of these patients in several ways. We present a case of patient with respiratory failure secondary to viral infection who developed acute bilateral pneumothorax (PTX) while mechanically ventilated during a transport on a fixed-wing aircraft. In this article we outline the unique risks of air travel on the development and progression of PTX as well as the unique challenges with diagnosis and treatment during air transport.