Pneumothorax

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                      General Information



Pneumothorax is a condition in which air escapes into the chest

cavity through a hole in the lungs or the chest wall.  Thus, the

air is outside the lungs yet trapped within the chest.  This

trapped air tends to compress the lungs and limit their

expansion, causing difficult breathing and sometimes collapse of

the lungs.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Treatment varies with the degree of severity of the

    pneumothorax.  In mild cases, treatment may be limited to

    enforced rest, while severe cases may require open-chest

    surgery.  Chest radiographs (x-rays) are necessary to

    diagnose and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Activity:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict exercise as follows:





4.  Do not allow rough play, barking or prolonged excitement

    during the treatment.



5.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





6.  Surgical patients:  Check the incision at least once daily.

    Report any abnormalities to the doctor.



7.  Special instructions:





        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's breathing worsens.



    * Your pet's gums or tongue become bluish rather than pink.



    * Your pet coughs.



    * Your pet is reluctant to eat or acts depressed.



    * Your pet removes the sutures or in some manner damages the

    incision.