An Uncommon life-threatening complication after chest tube drainage of pneumothorax in the ED

Re-expansion pulmonary oedema (REPO) after chest tube drainage of pneumothorax is uncommon. We contrast one patient with life threatening against another mildly symptomatic REPO occurring in our emergency department (ED).The mechanism and management of REPO differs distinctly from that of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema. We discuss the predictors of REPO, review clinical details of reported fatalities and suggest preventive measures.