Closed
- Not exposed to outside world
- Usually not traumatic
- Lung air is drawn into pleural cavity during inspiration, reducing potential lung expansion
Open
- Chest wall perforation usually traumatic
- External air is drawn into pleural cavity reducing expansion
Tension pneumothorax
- Perforation forms a one-way valve - air can only enter the pleural cavity
- Pressure builds up causing compression and a shift in mediastinum
Needs decompression to relieve pressure - via needle in intercostal splace or chest drain