Intermediate
Technical
IVT
chest tube
A drainage catheter placed into the pleural space to remove air, fluid, or blood following thoracic surgery.
Full Definition
A chest tube is a flexible drainage catheter inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space to evacuate abnormal collections of air, fluid, or blood. Following thoracic surgery, chest tubes are routinely placed to monitor for air leaks, drain surgical site fluid, and maintain lung expansion. The tubes are connected to a drainage system that may provide suction to facilitate evacuation. Removal timing depends on drainage volume, air leak resolution, and radiographic evidence of full lung re-expansion.
Usage
Usage note: Specify size (French gauge) and number of tubes placed in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "Two chest tubes were placed following the lobectomy to monitor for air leaks and drainage." — Operative note
- "The chest tube was removed on postoperative day 3 after confirming no air leak and minimal drainage." — Progress note
Also known as
thoracostomy tube
pleural drain
Don't confuse with
central line
mediastinal tube