What is chest drainage?
Chest drainage is the removal of excess fluid and/or air
from the space surrounding the lung(s).
When does a patient need chest
drainage?
Chest drainage may be needed after lung or heart surgery,
chest trauma, or when excessive fluid or air builds up in
the space outside the lungs (pleural cavity).
How is chest drainage performed?
A chest tube is surgically inserted through the chest wall
between the ribs into the pleural cavity. The other end is
attached to a chest drainage device, which may provide
suction.
What is a chest tube?
A chest tube is small, flexible, plastic tube used in chest
drainage and other chest-related procedures. The placement
of a chest tube is called a tube thoracostomy.
How long is chest drainage needed?
The chest tube and drainage are necessary as long as the
problem that required the tube placement persists. The
doctor may order a chest X-ray to confirm that the chest
tube is in good position. The chest X-ray also helps the
doctor determine if the tube is draining properly.
Does chest drainage hurt?
Yes, the doctor gives numbing medication (local anesthesia)
when the chest tube is inserted but there still may be some
pain upon insertion. Occasionally, the chest tube may cause
discomfort after being inserted. Pain medication may be
required. The chest tube may also cause discomfort when it
is removed.
Are there any potential
complications associated with chest drainage?
Bleeding and infections are rare complications of chest
drainage.
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A chest drainage unit |
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Chest Drainage 
