Chest high-frequency oscillatory treatment for severe atelectasis in a patient with toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Atelectasis is a significant risk factor for the development of pneumonia, especially in pediatric populations more prone to alveolar collapse or those who may have weakened muscular tone. The Metaneb (R) system is a pneumatic, noninvasive physiotherapy technique that delivers chest high-frequency oscillations. Chest high-frequency oscillations have been shown to enhance mucociliary clearance of secretions and help resolve patchy atelectasis. This report describes the case of a 17-year-old female patient who developed significant left-sided atelectasis after extubation and was effectively managed with complete resolution of her atelectasis with the Metaneb (R) system, obviating the need for reintubation. (J Burn Care Res 2013;34:e112-e115)