Percutaneous Chest Tube for Pleural Effusion and Pneumothorax

Abstract

Chest tubes are placed in the pleural space to evacuate abnormal fluid or air accumulations. Various types and sizes of chest tubes are available. Imaging including ultrasound, computed tomography, and fluoroscopy should be used to guide chest tube placement. Understanding the anatomy of the pleural space, along with the etiology and classification of pleural space disease, can help optimize chest tube management. This article will review the indications, contraindications, techniques, and postprocedure follow-up of chest tube placement as well as discuss the management and prevention of complications.

Keywords

percutaneous chest tube - thoracostomy tube - pleural effusion - pneumothorax - pleural drain - interventional radiology

Publication History

Article published online:
31 August 2022

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