AboutNeal Okerson Expertise I should be able to answer most questions about anatomy and physiology of heart and lungs. I also enjoy answering questions about understanding diseases. I should also be able to explain the goals and objectives of various pulmonary related treatments. Not an M.D., but worked in the field (Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician) since 1990. Registered Respiratory Therapist since 1995. B.S. degree in Health Education (1987). Currently working (since 1993) as the Director of Clinical Education in an AMA approved Respiratory Care Program in Western KY.
Question Neal--my 17 yr old daughter was hospitalized in dec for a pneumothorax, 30% lung collapsed.there was no chest tube.She was put on 100% oxygen & it diffused itself..She was allowed to return to all activites,including gym, after 5 weeks..2 weeks ago the pneumo came back but it was soo small they had to use a magnifyer to see it..Because it came back they now want to do surgey & i'm scared for my daughter..i've read negative things on the internet from people who have had surgery for this.I have yet to find anyone that was glad they had the surgery..the pneumos all came back & they could not go back to their normal activities..Could the reason why hers came back at the exact place was that it never really healed to begin with? I'm goin for a 2nd opinion next week & i'm just looking for as much info as possible..Are there other alternatives to surgery? I also know that surgeons like to push the surgery cause it is an expensive procedure & right now, at least up here in the east, there are alot of hospitals in dire straits..one would like to think the patient comes first but hey lets face it hospitals need to make money too..thanks for any light you can shed...
Answer Gloria,
I am sorry to hear about your daughter's pneumothorax. I am not able to offer any advice about surgery other than to seek a second opinion. This is over my ability. Sounds like you have already been doing your homework on the topic. Just make the best (informed) decision you can.
