Incidence of pneumothorax in mechanically ventilated patients in a general ICU

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the incidence of pneumothorax in mechanically ventilated patients in general intensive care. During this study period from August 1994 to August 1996, 679 patients were admitted into the intensive care unit. Out of these, 458 patients required mechanical ventilation. Total number of patients who developed pneumothorax were 4, so the incidence of pneumothorax was found to be 0.85%. No correlation was found in this study between the incidence of pneumothorax and peak inspiratory pressures. However, patient who received high tidals volumes were, found to have increased incidence of pneumothorax.