During a chest tube thoracostomy, a thin and flexible tube is inserted through the ribs and into the chest cavity in order to drain fluid and air from around the lungs. The tube is connected to a machine that provides suction.
Also Known As:
- Chest tube
- Tube thoracostomy
- Breathing tube
- Emergency breathing surgery
Conditions Treated with a Chest Tube Thoracostomy:
A chest tube thoracostomy is utilized in cases of chest surgery, a collapsed lung and pleural effusion.
There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to a chest tube thoracostomy.
Anesthesia with a Chest Tube Thoracostomy:
A chest tube thoracostomy is performed with local anesthesia.
Potential Complications from a Chest Tube Thoracostomy:
Possible risks following a chest tube thoracostomy include bleeding, infection due to bacteria entering the tube and a negative reaction to the anesthesia.
Recovery from a Chest Tube Thoracostomy:
No recovery time is needed following a chest tube thoracostomy.