N-아세틸시스테인 투여후 발생한 급성 무기폐 - 증례보고-

Acute Atelectasis after N-acetylcysteine Instillation - A c a se re p o rt-

Causes of atelectasis under general anesthesia are tracheal foreign body, blood clot, aspiration of bronchial secretion, one-lung ventilation and relative predominance of parasympathetic system. N-acetylcysteine is mucolytic agent which improves the capability of sputum drainage. After administration of N-acetylcysteine, an increased volume of liquified bronchial secretions may occur. When cough is inadequate, the airway must be maintained open by mechanical suction. In case that is a mechanical block due to local accumulation, the airway should be cleared by endotracheal aspiration. A 49-year-old female was admitted for bilateral laparoscopic oophorectomy due to ovarian tumors. There was not any problem during a general anesthesia induction. After instillation of N-acetylcysteine into endotracheal tube, acute atelectasis was developed in right lower lung.