Pneumothorax

Most cases of pneumothorax in pregnancy occur in those with un­derlying lung pathology such as emphysema, Marfan syndrome, or bronchiectasis. It has also been described in those with pleural endo­metriosis. Pneumothorax may rarely occur during the second stage of labour secondary to rupture of a bulla during prolonged Valsalva manoeuvres. Chest drains can be inserted in pregnancy and for re­sistant cases video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and pleurodesis should not be withheld.

Figure 25.3 CT axial slice of pregnant patient showing fibrotic lung disease secondary to connective tissue disease.