Guide To Diagnosing And Treating Atelectasis

Tumor Shrinkage And Removal

If there is a tumor keeping a portion of the sacs within the lungs from inflating properly, tumor shrinkage and removal could be a priority to address a collapsed lung. Medications may be used to help shrink the tumor, or it may be removed through a surgical procedure. If the tumor is small enough, the surgeon may be able to remove it during a scope procedure used to diagnose the reason for atelectasis. For larger tumors, physicians may recommend radiation or chemotherapy instead of surgery or before or after a surgical procedure is performed.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

Continuous positive airway pressure, more commonly referred to as CPAP, has been shown to be beneficial for patients with atelectasis. A mask is placed over the patient's nose or the patient's mouth and nose. A machine pumps gas mixed with the appropriate amount of oxygen into the patient's lungs in a manner that mimics regular breathing patterns. CPAP can be beneficial to patients unable to cough firmly enough and whose oxygen levels are low due to the collapse of the lung. It is not only effective at treating cases of atelectasis, but is often used after certain types of surgery as a way to reduce the risk of developing collapsed lung following surgery.