Author:
Segers F.,Ghysen K.,Haerens M.,Derijcke S.
Abstract
Negative pressure pulmonary oedema: a rare cause for severe but reversible respiratory distress
Negative pressure pulmonary oedema is a rare cause of reversible respiratory failure. It can occur after the development of a severe inspiratory force against an obstructed airway or, less often, after relief of a chronic airway obstruction. In the first case, this is most frequently seen in problematic endotracheal ventilation. Recognition and urgent treatment are primordial for a good outcome. The case described in this article concerns a young woman who underwent elective surgery complicated by a sudden onset of respiratory distress which led to the diagnosis of negative pressure pulmonary oedema.