Etymed
atelectasis
Definition
Abnormal condition characterized by the collapse or incomplete expansion of lung tissue, resulting in reduced lung capacity
Clinical context
A 65-year-old postoperative patient presents with sudden onset dyspnea and decreased breath sounds on the right side after abdominal surgery. Chest X-ray reveals localized lung collapse with mediastinal shift toward the affected side. The patient's condition deteriorates despite oxygen therapy and bronchodilators.
Mnemonic
ATELECTASIS - Air Tissue Expulsion Causes Incomplete Sudden Collapse, Think 'Pneumonia' and 'Surgery' as common causes