A chest tube or chest drain is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted through the side of the chest into the pleural space. It is used to remove air (pneumothorax) or fluid (pleural effusion) from the space.
The free end of the tube is usually attached to an underwater seal, below the level of the chest. This allows egress of air/fluid from the pleural space, while preventing influx of air.
Alternatively, the tube can be attached to a flutter valve. This allows patients with pneumothorax to remain ambulant.
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