What does the term 'mediastinal emphysema' refer to within the classification of POIS?

Mediastinal emphysema specifically refers to the presence of air within the mediastinum, which is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity surrounded by the lungs. This condition can occur due to various reasons, such as trauma or a rupture in the respiratory system, leading to the trapping of air in an abnormal location. Within the classification of post-operative intrathoracic syndrome (POIS), recognizing mediastinal emphysema is critical because it can impact patient management and may indicate complications arising from thoracic procedures. Understanding that this term implies air presence in a specific thoracic region helps clarify its significance in medical assessment and treatment of related conditions.