Independent Lung Ventilation in a Pediatric Patient with a Firearm Injury

Abstract

Background: Chest trauma is uncommon in pediatric patients, however, it may be a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. The type and extent of the injury may lead to ventilation and perfusion problems, therefore, there may be a need for mechanical ventilation. Conclusions: "Independent lung ventilation" may be an appropriate option in selected cases in which the aim is to protect the healthy lung or ventilation cannot be obtained with known mechanical ventilation methods. Case: We presented a pediatric patient followed up in the intensive care unit because of a firearm injury, in whom left lung expansion could not be obtained despite repeated interventions, and independent lung ventilation resulted in success.