Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to remove pulmonary (lung) secretions and re-expand the affected lung tissue.

The following are treatments for atelectasis:

• Use aerosolized respiratory treatments to open the airway.
• Position the body on the unaffected side to allow the lung to re-expand.
• Remove any obstruction by bronchoscopy or another procedure.
• Perform deep breathing exercises (incentive spirometry).
• Clap (percussion) on the chest to loosen mucus.
• Tilt the body (postural drainage) so that the head is lower than the chest to drain mucus.
• Treat a tumor or underlying condition, if present.

Expectations (prognosis):

The collapsed lung usually re-inflates gradually once the obstruction has been removed. However, some residual scarring or damage may occur.

Complications:

Pneumonia may develop rapidly after atelectasis.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of atelectasis.