Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
tube thoracostomy
Pronunciation: thor-ah-KOS-toh-mee
Insertion of a chest tube into the pleural space to drain air, blood, or fluid.
Full Definition
Tube thoracostomy is the procedure of inserting a large-bore chest tube through the chest wall into the pleural space to evacuate pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion. The procedure is typically performed through the fourth or fifth intercostal space at the anterior axillary line using a technique that creates a subcutaneous tunnel to prevent air leak when the tube is removed. It is a critical skill in trauma surgery for managing chest injuries and preventing respiratory compromise.
Usage
Usage note: Two words. Plural is 'tube thoracostomies'. Distinguish from 'thoracotomy' (surgical opening of chest).
In Context
- "Bilateral tube thoracostomies were performed for massive hemopneumothoraces." — Operative report
- "The tube thoracostomy drained 1200 mL of blood immediately upon insertion." — Procedure note
Also known as
chest tube insertion
chest tube placement
Don't confuse with
needle decompression
thoracentesis
thoracotomy