Which option is described as the definitive treatment for pneumothorax in the material?

• A. Oxygen
• B. Small-bore catheter
• C. Tube thoracostomy
• D. Needle decompression

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that the definitive way to treat a pneumothorax is to physically remove the air from the pleural space and re-expand the lung. A chest tube (tube thoracostomy) provides continuous drainage of air and allows the lung to re-expand, addressing both the leak and the collapsed lung. Oxygen helps symptoms and speeds air absorption but does not by itself resolve the pneumothorax. Needle decompression is an emergency, lifesaving maneuver used to quickly relieve pressure in a tension pneumothorax, but it’s not considered the definitive fix. A small-bore catheter can drain air, but its effectiveness may be limited in larger or persistent pneumothoraces, making chest tube drainage the more reliable definitive option.