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The Needle Vs. The Knife for Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A Closer Look at the EXPRED Study

REBEL EM

Thoracentesis with free drainage for 15 minutes Drainage at -25cm H20 for 30 minutes Clamping and radiograph; If failed, 2nd aspiration at -25cm H20 for 30 minutes, Repeat clamping and radiograph. First episode of primary and complete pneumothorax. If it fails again, chest tube placement and continuous drainage. Strange, C.,

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The RAMPP Trial: Randomised Ambulatory Management of Primary Pneumothorax

REBEL EM

Patients were discharged if: Stable cardiopulmonary observations No increase in the size of the pneumothorax since the last radiograph Did not require oxygen or other respiratory support Able to self-care Provided a point of contact and follow-up plan Lives with a responsible person at home and agrees with disposition. 2001 Dec;18(6):565-8.