Also known as:
- Intercostal Catheter (ICC)
- Pleural Drain
Patients who have had cardiac or thoracic (chest) surgery, or trauma may need a chest drain inserted through the chest wall to drain fluid or air from around
the lung or heart. A chest drain may also be required to drain collections of fluid
from around the lungs in other circumstances (such as infection).
The Procedure
Every ICC is inserted under strict sterile conditions by a doctor. It may
be inserted while the patient is in the emergency department, operating
theatre or intensive care unit. It is stitched in place underneath the armpit
or at the base of the breastbone. The ICC is connected to a drainage bottle
or collection system positioned at the side of the bed. You may see fluid in
the tubing swinging or bubbling.
The Risks
A chest drain may cause damage to the lung, nearby vessels or nerves during
insertion. After insertion, a chest x-ray is performed to check that the drain is in
an appropriate position. The drain can cause pain, and may occasionally
become blocked. Infection is also a potential complication. The drains are closely monitored and are removed when they are no longer necessary.
