Introduction:
Pneumothorax reflects the presence of air in the pleural cavity [1]. Tension pneumothorax is a serious condition in which the trapped air causes shifting of the mediastinum as a result of the high pressure in the pleural space [1]. It is seen in approximately 1 to 2 percent of pneumothorax cases with a higher rate in patients with trauma and patients receiving mechanical ventilation [2]. Although chest x-ray is usually the initial investigation for pneumothorax, chest computed tomography scan (CT) is the best modality, especially in complicated cases, in which it can determine the presence, size, and location of intrapleural gas [3].
Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a sinus tract between a bronchus and the pleural cavity [4]. It usually presents as a complication of pneumonectomy or surgery on the lung; however, many other causes have been described including pneumonia with necrosis, chest radiation, invasive malignancy, and tuberculosis [4]. Treatment for BPF can be medical, bronchoscopic, or surgical depending on the clinical condition and the underlying cause [4]. BPF can cause significant morbidity and mortality mainly due to aspiration pneumonia or tension pneumothorax [4].