Can a tension pneumothorax be fatal?
A tension pneumothorax is an absolutely life-threatening condition and must be treated as early as possible. If no timely treatment can be given, a tension pneumothorax usually ends fatally. The reason is the compression of the mediastinum and the subsequent cardiac arrest.
Unfortunately, a tension pneumothorax usually progresses very quickly, which makes urgent therapy all the more necessary. However, if treated in time and without complications and without major accompanying injuries, a tension pneumothorax has a very good prognosis and usually heals very quickly.
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