Left lower lobe collapse and consolidation

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Post op (T11 traumatic burst fracture). Shortness of breath.

Patient Data

Age: 35 years
Gender: Male

Chest x-ray

x-ray

Descending aorta and diaphragmatic outlines are lost. Air bronchograms are present in the retrocardiac position. The ribs are somewhat crowded on the left. Features are consistent with left lower lobe collapse with some consolidation. 

Pre-op xray

x-ray

Comparison with his pre-op x-ray highlights how collapse of the left lower lobe obliterates the normal outline of the descending aorta and medial posterior diaphragm.

Case Discussion

In the post operative setting collapse of parts of the lungs (especially the lower lobes) is relatively common due to formation of mucous plugs. 

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