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].