This briefing sets out the avoidable nature of pneumothorax that may occur through the negligent application of needles. It draws on claims and experience relating to the CSP public liability insurance scheme.
Important note
From 1 July 2024, the PLI scheme will no longer cover thoracic acupuncture.
The CSP PLI scheme no longer covers acupuncture for in/fertility.
This paper highlights practice issues associated with litigation claims arising from the use of needles near the apex of the lung.
The most common injury reported to the CSP is iatrogenic pneumothorax, a collection of air in the pleural cavity causing lung collapse.
Signs and symptoms include sudden onset of chest pain and a varying degree of shortness of breath. Iatrogenic pneumothorax is an avoidable risk and an unacceptable consequence.