An alternative approach to needle thoracostomy for tension pneumothorax

摘要

We wish to comment on the appropriate length of catheter for needle thoracostomy. We agree that a single length catheter will not be long enough for all patients. An alternative particularly in the pre-hospital environment is to 'go lateral'. A finger thoracostomy should be performed laterally in the fourth intercostal space just anterior to the mid axillary line where the chest wall is thinner.