[Intrathoracic gas effusions of iatrogenic origin in neonatal reanimation].

Intra-thoracic gaseous collections, pneumodiastinum and pneumothorax, have become more common since the use of positive expiratory pressure, either with spontaneous ventilation or in association with artificial ventilation. In our experience, the occurence rate of such collections has increased from 7 p. 100 in 1970 to 19 p. 100 in 1974, related to the use of continuous positive pressure of long duration in the treatment of idiopathic respiratory distress or hyaline membrane disease. These gaseous collections were initially associated with a high mortality (50 p. 100) which is now practically nil. Improved knowledge of the clinical and radiological signs and the insertion of thoracic drains in the presence of the slightest doubt represent the explanation of this reduced mortality.