Early Period Results in Patients Developing Pneumothorax and Pneumomediastinum Due to COVID-19 Pneumonia: Single-Center Clinical Experience on 47 Cases

Abstract

Objective: Pneumothorax (PNX) and/or pneumomediastinum (PNM) is an entity that can occur as late findings in COVID-19 patients with mechanical ventilator support. The purpose of this study was to determine the parameters that influence morbidity and mortality asso- ciated with PNX and/or PNM secondary to COVID-19 infection. Methods: The study was performed on patients from March 2020 to December 2020. De- mographic data, comorbidities, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) values, and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO 2) percentage were analyzed. Mortality in the first 48 h, between 48 h and 7 days, and after 7 days was assayed. Results: A total of 47 patients, only 2 of whom (4%) were in 20–40 years of age, were studied. The result was statistically significant (p