Pneumatoceles due to Mechanical Ventilation in two preterm babies: A practical diagnostic approach

Pneumatoceles are thin walled gas-filled cysts that develop within the lung parenchyma. Pneumatoceles are commonly seen after pneumonia, but rarely can also be seen after barotrauma from mechanical ventilation. Occasionally, it can rupture leading to air leak syndrome. We describe two interesting cases of large pneumatoceles in preterm babies due to ventilator associated injury and its management with review the literatures. We also propose a simplified practical approach for evaluation and management of these cases.