First Hands-On Experience with the Application of a Newly Designed Double-Branched Thoracic Catheter for Thoracic Interventions

Abstract

Background We investigated the technical handling of a y-shaped double-branched thoracic catheter with the aim of combining the effect of two separate catheters and the ease of use of a single one.

Methods A total of 20 catheters were placed consecutively in 20 patients.

Results In all patients, it was technically simple to position the catheter, whether in open or video-assisted surgery. The handling during removal corresponded to that of a single drain.

Conclusion This type of drain appears to hold a lot of potential compared with the use of a single drain. Further studies with defined and larger patient populations should be performed.

Keywords

chest tube - air leak - catheter

Disclaimer

The German Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery (DGTHG) and The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon neither endorse nor discourage the use of the new technology described in this publication.

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