In the case of pneumothorax in the right lung, the trachea will shift in which direction?

• A. Toward the right lung
• B. Away from the left lung
• C. Away from the right lung
• D. Toward the left lung

Answer: (C)

In the case of a pneumothorax in the right lung, the trachea will shift away from the affected side, which is the right lung. This occurs because pneumothorax leads to the accumulation of air in the pleural space, resulting in increased pressure on the lung and causing it to collapse. Consequently, the pressure imbalance creates a tendency for mediastinal structures, including the trachea, to deviate away from the side of the pneumothorax.

The trachea shifts toward the less pressured side, as it is physically displaced by the increased volume of air in the pleural cavity on the affected side. This characteristic is crucial in diagnosing and assessing the severity of a pneumothorax. The trachea's position can provide valuable insights into the underlying pathophysiological changes occurring in the thoracic cavity. Thus, understanding tracheal shifts in relation to pneumothorax is essential for healthcare professionals dealing with thoracic emergencies.