Tube thoracostomy

Sample contentAn illustrative outline. It has not been clinically reviewed.

Trauma · Foundational · 5 steps · Outline

Photo: U.S. Army RHCE by Kirk Frady · Public domain · Illustrative, not from this case
Written outline

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5 steps

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The safe triangle, a finger sweep, and a drain that stays where you put it.

Step by step

  1. 01

    Safe triangle

    Lateral pectoralis major, anterior latissimus dorsi, 5th intercostal space.

  2. 02

    Anaesthesia & incision

    Infiltrate down to pleura; incise over the rib.

  3. 03

    Blunt dissection

    Over the top of the rib to avoid the neurovascular bundle.

  4. 04

    Finger sweep

    Confirm pleural space and absence of adhesions.

  5. 05

    Insert & secure

    Direct posteriorly and apically; underwater seal; X-ray.

An educational outline, not a substitute for supervised clinical training or local protocols.

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