Atelectasis

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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

To decrease atelectasis risk:

  • Leave out the nuts. Do not give children nuts until they are about 3 years old, when they have molars to more thoroughly chew nuts.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking increases mucus production and damages the small, hair-like structures that line the bronchial tubes (cilia). Their wave-like motion helps carry mucus out of your airways.
  • Do deep-breathing exercises. After surgery, follow your doctor's instructions for frequent coughing and doing deep-breathing exercises.
  • Reposition yourself. If you must stay in bed, change your position frequently. Get up and walk as soon as you're able.
References
  1. Ali J. Perioperative respiratory failure. In: Hall JB, et al. Principles of Critical Care. 3rd ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical Pub. Division; 2005. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2296794. Accessed Jan. 26, 2010.
  2. Stark P. Atelectasis: Types and pathogenesis in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 11, 2010.
  3. Finder JD. Atelectasis in children. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 11, 2010.
  4. Surka A, et al. Bronchoscopic myths and legends: Bronchoscopy in the treatment of lobar atelectasis. Clinical Pulmonary Medicine. 2007;14:302.
  5. Smith DA. Pulmonary emergencies. In: Stone CK, et al. Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Emergency Medicine. 6th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=3106264. Accessed Jan. 26, 2010.
  6. Atelectasis. In: Professional Guide to Diseases. 8th ed. Springhouse, Pa.: Wolters Kluwer Health; 2005.
  7. Rozenfeld RA. Atelectasis. In: Kleigman, et al. Nelson's Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/181644491-2/0/1608/959.html?tocnode=54482623&fromURL=959.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2450-750409-6_7886. Accessed Feb. 3, 2010.
DS01170 March 19, 2010

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