Chest Tube Placement

Chest tube placement is a medical procedure used to remove air, fluid, or pus from the space around the lungs, known as the pleural space. A healthcare provider inserts a long, flexible tube through the chest wall into this space using local anesthesia for comfort. This tube allows trapped air or fluid to drain, helping the lungs expand properly, which improves breathing. It’s commonly performed in cases of pneumothorax (collapsed lung), pleural effusion (fluid buildup), or infection. Proper placement and monitoring are crucial to ensure the patient’s safety and recovery.