A decrease in gas and volume within one side, one lobe, or one lung segment is called atelectasis.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

1. Mild cases may have no conscious symptoms or a persistent cough that is difficult to cure. Severe cases may present with dyspnea, cyanosis, etc.
2. Chest signs may only include narrowed intercostal spaces, displacement of the trachea and heart, and weakened breath sounds when the lesion area is large.

bubble_chart Auxiliary Examination

1. X-ray examination: The main basis for the diagnosis of atelectasis, manifested as reduced volume and increased density of the collapsed lung lobe, displacement of the adjacent interlobar pleura toward the collapsed lobe, and convergence of lung markings and bronchi. Common types:
   1. Unilateral lung atelectasis.
   2. Upper lobe atelectasis.
   3. Right middle lobe atelectasis.
   4. Lower lobe atelectasis.
2. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy: This is the most valuable method for diagnosing the cause of atelectasis. It allows direct visualization of the bronchial conditions, confirmation of foreign bodies, and biopsy collection.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

1. Remove the cause of the disease.
2. Control infection: Administer sensitive antibiotics or treat subcutaneous nodes.
3. Remove foreign bodies: Use bronchoscopy to extract foreign objects or aspirate secretions.
4. Tumors: Surgical intervention is required.
5. Postural drainage: Change positions or perform postural drainage. Concurrently administer oral phlegm-expelling formulas and ultrasonic nebulization.
6. Lobectomy: If atelectasis persists for more than 12–18 months despite medical treatment, consider surgical lobectomy. Preoperative bronchial lipiodol angiography is required.