Adults: Trauma carts should be stocked with 28Fr, 24Fr, 20Fr standard chest tubes and 14Fr pigtail catheter kits. Chest tubes allow for drainage of fluid and air from the thoracic cavity. Proper re-expansion of the lungs permits adequate. Chest tube insertion is a common therapeutic procedure used to provide evacuation of abnormal collections of air or fluid from the pleural space. Tube thoracostomy may be indicated for pleural effusions associated with malignancy, infection, or hemothorax in the post-surgical setting. Pediatrics: PALS carts should be stocked. However, in recent years, guidelines and statements from American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and British Thoracic Society (BTS) stress the value of observation, repeat imaging and prompt follow-up for stable, asymptomatic patients with no underlying lung disease or trauma. An ACCP consensus. Our Medical A. Pigtail catheter procedures should be performed using strict aseptic technique with appropriate imaging guidance. What are the best methods for prolonged pleural space drainage? For the correct application of a pigtail catheter for pleural effusion, enter the rib space slightly above the rib below, to avoid major neurovascular bundles running underneath the rib, and collaterals running above the rib.
