Collapsed Lung

What is this study about?

We are recruiting patients who are admitted to hospital with a collapsed lung (pneumothorax). Patients often require treatment to re-inflate the lung. The trial is looking at whether low-grade suction applied to the chest tube, vs. no suction (which we call standard care), re-inflates the lung quicker. The trial is called RASPER, which stands for RANDOMISED TRIAL OF SUCTION FOR PRIMARY PNEUMOTHORAX EARLY RESOLUTION.

It's hoped that applying suction will reduce length of stay in hospital and complications. Benefits include potential re-inflation more quickly in the suction group, but we do not know this for sure.

Who can take part?

Patients who are admitted to the hospital with air in the lung wall, a condition known as pneumothorax.

What's involved?

Your treatment will continue as normal, but you may be given a drain with or without suction; you will be told which treatment you are given. Every day, whilst you are in hospital, you will get an email with a link to a questionnaire with 2 questions about your pain. When you are discharged from hospital you will be followed up via a telephone by our research team. This study does not delay your discharge and there are no further visits to hospital.

How do I take part?

The study is run by the pleural team at Arrowe Park Hospital ward 38.

You will be approached by your pleural team, doctor or research nurse if you are eligible.