Fatal Case of Tension Pneumothorax and Pneumoperitoneum Secondary to Mechanical Ventilation: A Radiological and Clinical Insight

A 74-year-old female presented to the emergency department with respiratory distress and cyanosis. Despite successful intubation, imaging revealed extensive barotrauma including tension pneumothorax, pneumoperitoneum, and pneumoretroperitoneum, following mechanical ventilation. The patient's family declined invasive interventions, and she expired shortly after. This case highlights the need for early detection and prompt management of ventilation-induced barotrauma, underlining the critical role of imaging in diagnosis and treatment planning.