In cases of a tension pneumothorax, which direction does the trachea deviate?

In cases of a tension pneumothorax, the trachea deviates away from the affected side. This occurs due to the accumulation of air in the pleural space, which increases intrathoracic pressure and pushes structures, including the trachea, away from the side that is compromised. The inflating pressure creates a mediastinal shift, leading to displacement of the trachea and other mediastinal structures toward the opposite, unaffected side. This is a critical finding in assessing a patient with tension pneumothorax, as it can indicate the necessity for immediate intervention to relieve the pressure and prevent respiratory failure and cardiovascular collapse.