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Glossary

Definition of medical terms used on the web.

Hemopneumothorax


Accumulation of air and blood in the pleural cavity, between the lungs and pleura, which is the membrane surrounding them. It may also occur separately: air = pneumothorax and blood = hemothorax. It is an emergency situation as a pulmonary lesion has occurred and respiratory capacity is affected. It requires drainage through a tube connected to a suction system that will facilitate discharge of accumulated air or blood as appropriate. See chest tube.