Modern Techniques to Insert Chest Drains

Thorac Surg Clin. 2017 Feb;27(1):29-34. doi: 10.1016/j.thorsurg.2016.08.005.

Abstract

Both physicians and surgeons insert chest drains by various techniques-including Seldinger and "wide-bore" methods. The indications include hemothorax, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and postoperative care in thoracic surgery. Given their invasive nature, there is significant potential for complications; however, this can be minimized by following a meticulous technique, which is herein described for both Seldinger and "wide-bore" drain insertion.

Keywords: Best practices; Chest tubes; Procedure; Thoracic surgical; Training.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chest Tubes* / adverse effects
  • Drainage / adverse effects
  • Drainage / instrumentation
  • Drainage / methods*
  • Empyema / etiology
  • Hemothorax / etiology
  • Hemothorax / surgery
  • Humans
  • Pleural Effusion / surgery
  • Pneumothorax / etiology
  • Pneumothorax / surgery
  • Postoperative Care / adverse effects
  • Postoperative Care / instrumentation
  • Postoperative Care / methods*
  • Thoracic Surgical Procedures*