A Basic Guide to Chest Tube
Chest Tube
What is a chest tube? A chest tube is a thin and flexible tube that is inserted into the space between the lungs and chest wall, also known as the pleural space. Why do I need to have a chest tube inserted? The chest tube allows the drainage of fluid (blood, pus, serous fluid) or air that has built up in the pleural space into a collection bottle.
When will the chest tube be removed? The doctor will decide to remove the tube according to your condition, when air/fluid drainage has reduced to an acceptable level.