Lung Ultrasound Versus Chest Radiography for Detection of Pneumothorax

Within a maximum of two hours after chest tube removal, the sonographic exam will be performed with an ultrasound device to assess residual PNX using a portable ultrasound device. The examination will require patients to lie face upward and will be performed at three different sites on both sides of the patient's chest. Each chest site will be imaged for approximately 10-20 seconds, allowing a complete examination of each side in approximately 30-60 seconds. The total study time for the LUS exam is approximately 2 minutes. The results of this assessment will be compared to the standard chest x-ray performed by a radiologist who is unaware of the study.