

10. Intro to The Pleura & Conquering
21 snips Oct 23, 2023
Learn about the intricacies of pleural anatomy and physiology, explore different types of pneumothorax and their management strategies, and discover the significance of ultrasound in assessing and treating this critical condition. Sit back and enjoy a chat filled with pulmonary and critical care pearls!
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Pleural Mechanics
- The lungs naturally want to collapse, while the chest wall wants to expand.
- Pleural fluid, via surface tension, holds these opposing forces together, allowing smooth lung expansion.
Buffalo Vulnerability
- Buffalo have a single pleural cavity, unlike humans who have two.
- A unilateral pneumothorax in a buffalo can become bilateral, leading to obstructive shock and death.
Elephant Adaptation
- Elephants' pleural spaces are filled with thick tissue, preventing pneumothorax.
- This adaptation allows them to generate extremely negative intrathoracic pressures for snorkeling.