부산대학교 도서관

Pneumomediastinum and pneumoperitoneum are rare pulmonary disorders. They can occur spontaneously or result from medical treatment (iatrogenic causes), underlying disorders, or trauma. In patients receiving ventilation, pneumomediastinum and pneumoperitoneum result from barotrauma and alveolar rupture. Currently, no guidelines exist to guide evaluation and management of either disorder. Most patients present with mild, self-limited disease that resolves with conservative treatment. Administration of high concentrations of oxygen may help speed resorption of the free air. An underlying cause should be sought and treated as necessary. Rarely, patients may have a more serious complication, such as tension pneumomediastinum or abdominal compartment syndrome, that necessitates emergent treatment with decompression.