Tension pneumothorax is considered a rare condition, with estimates suggesting it occurs in less than 3% of patients in major trauma and intensive care unit (ICU) settings.¹ Although Tension pneumothorax is rare, it is a serious life-threatening emergency in which the pleural space fills with a large collection of air. If not recognized and treated immediately, the condition can be deadly.

Needle decompression, a standard life-saving procedure, has traditionally relied on subjective cues, such as an audible rush of air. This reliance makes it challenging to confirm success in noisy environments.

A study conducted in 2020 looked at the use of colorimetric capnography to objectively confirm needle decompression. The study presented a case of a 58-year-old male who sustained a motorcycle accident and developed a left-sided tension pneumothorax during air transport. A colorimetric capnography device was attached to the needle thoracostomy, which provided a visible color change in response to exhaled CO2.²

This study highlights the potential of colorimetric capnography to improve the accuracy and reliability of needle decompression by removing subjectivity and providing real-time visual feedback for medical providers.

Objectively confirm needle thoracostomy with Capnospot!

The Capnospot® Pneumothorax Decompression Indicator is a lightweight and compact detection device that provides visual confirmation of tension pneumothorax decompression success or failure by using a nearly instant color change. The Capnospot device indicates if the decompression is non-therapeutic, or if the catheter loses patency, it will revert to its original color. Capnospot visually indicates decompression success or failure in less than five seconds, allowing immediate adjustment of the catheter.

Capnospot’s Features And Benefits

• Easy to attach with standard luer fittings
• Rapid, efficient, and visual indication of correct needle placement
• Easy to read results removes operator subjectivity, even in low lighting
• Lightweight, portable, and compact
• Compatible with existing decompression devices, catheters, and needles
• More accurate than listening for a gush of air
• Built-in one-way valve
• Cost effective solution reduces the need for multiple needles to ensure success
• Made in the USA

For more information or to request a demonstration of the Capnospot by Pneumeric®, call 888-891-1200 or email us to be connected with your local sales representative.

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References

¹Axtman, B.C., et al. “Prehospital Decompression of Tension Pneumothorax: Have We Moved the Needle?” The American Journal of Surgery, Elsevier, 24 Sept. 2022, www.sciencedirect.com

²Needle Decompression of Tension Pneumothorax with Colorimetric Capnography