Two cases of non-tension pneumothorax in children after pleural empyema drainage were managed conservatively, implying surgical intervention may be unnecessary.
Key Points
Both children with pneumothorax after drainage were clinically stable and resolved naturally over 3-6 months.
Insertion of small-bore chest drains can shorten hospital stays but may lead to complications like pneumothorax.
Conservative management of non-tension pneumothorax can prevent unnecessary surgical interventions in young patients.
Management strategies for pleural empyema complications need to be reevaluated to avoid overtreatment.