Successful surgical repair of iatrogenic lung perforation in a neonate

Iatrogenic lung perforation during closed tube thoracostomy for pneumothorax in neonates apparently occurs with disturbing frequency. This potentially lethal complication may be minimized by strict adherance to proper technique. In addition, an added margin of safety may be established by allowing some air to remain in the pleural space prior to placement of a chest tube. If iatrogenic perforation of the lung occurs despite appropriate precautions, surgical intervention may be indicated.