Independent Lung Ventilation in a Pediatric Patient with a Firearm Injury

Pediatr Allergy Immunol Pulmonol. 2021 Sep;34(3):112-114. doi: 10.1089/ped.2021.0054.

Abstract

Background: Chest trauma is uncommon in pediatric patients, however, it may be a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. The type and extent of the injury may lead to ventilation and perfusion problems, therefore, there may be a need for mechanical ventilation. Conclusions: "Independent lung ventilation" may be an appropriate option in selected cases in which the aim is to protect the healthy lung or ventilation cannot be obtained with known mechanical ventilation methods. Case: We presented a pediatric patient followed up in the intensive care unit because of a firearm injury, in whom left lung expansion could not be obtained despite repeated interventions, and independent lung ventilation resulted in success.

Keywords: double lumen endotracheal tube; firearm injury; independent lung ventilation; lung trauma; mechanical ventilation.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Firearms*
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Respiration, Artificial
  • Wounds, Gunshot* / therapy