A pneumothorax — commonly called a collapsed lung — can be frightening and, without treatment, has a significant chance of happening again. I offer thorough investigation and keyhole surgery to treat pneumothorax and significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing the lung to collapse partially or fully. It can occur spontaneously — most often in tall, slim young men — or as a result of an underlying lung condition, injury, or medical procedure.
Symptoms typically include sudden sharp chest pain and breathlessness. A small pneumothorax may resolve on its own, but larger ones require treatment to re-expand the lung. More importantly, without surgical treatment, a spontaneous pneumothorax has a recurrence rate of up to 50% — meaning half of patients will experience it again.
I offer keyhole (VATS) surgery to treat pneumothorax definitively — removing the small blebs or blisters on the lung surface that cause the air leak, and creating a controlled adhesion between the lung and chest wall to prevent recurrence. This is the most effective way to prevent a pneumothorax from happening again.
Book a Consultation →Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia through small keyhole incisions. The operation typically takes under an hour. Most patients spend a few days in hospital and return to normal activities within two to three weeks. Recurrence rates following surgery are significantly lower than with non-surgical management alone.
Common questions from patients referred with a pneumothorax or collapsed lung. Please raise anything further at your consultation.
Book a ConsultationAppointments within 2–3 days. Self-referrals welcome. GP referral not required.
Book a Consultation →Surgery at London Bridge Hospital and Lister Hospital Chelsea