It is a condition where the alveoli are deflated, as distinct from pulmonary consolidation. It is a very common finding in chest x-rays and other radiological studies. It may be caused by normal exhalation or by several medical conditions. Although frequently described as a collapse of lung tissue, atelectasis is not synonymous with a pneumothorax, which is a more specific condition that features atelectasis.
There are two types of portable oxygen concentrators available on the market today: Continuous flow oxygen concentrators and pulse dose, or intermittent flow, oxygen concentrators. These two types of oxygen systems have very different benefits and limitations and each is best suited for a specific type of patient.
An oxygen concentrator is a medical instrument that provides oxygen therapy to patients with respiratory illnesses. Oxygen concentrators administer oxygen that is purer than the oxygen in the ambient air. Oxygen concentrators have become significantly more popular than compressed oxygen tanks. Unlike oxygen tanks, oxygen concentrators do not run the risk of leaking and causing explosions or fires.