Chest Tube/Pigtail Drainage -

Chest Tube/Pigtail Drainage

A chest tube or pigtail catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the pleural space i.e. the space between the lungs and chest wall to drain fluid, blood, pus, or air from around the lungs. It helps the lung re-expand and restores normal breathing.

Why is it Done?

Chest tube drainage may be needed in:

Pneumothorax, air in pleural space spontaneous or due to trauma.
Pleural effusion the fluid buildup from infection, cancer, heart/liver/kidney disease.
Empyema the pus due to severe lung infection.
Haemothorax is the blood in the pleural space, often after chest injury/surgery.
Post-surgery after lung or heart operations.
Chylothorax (lymphatic fluid leak).

Symptoms

Sudden or progressive breathlessness
Chest pain or tightness
Low oxygen levels
Cough that worsens when lying down
Fever (if due to infection)

How to Prepare for the test?

It is usually performed in a hospital setting under sterile precautions.
Inform your doctor about blood thinners or bleeding disorders.
A chest X-ray or ultrasound is done beforehand to confirm the site.
Fasting may be required if sedation is planned.

How is it Done?

The patient lies or sits in a position for best access to the chest.
The skin is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
A small incision is made, and the tube (or pigtail catheter) is inserted into the pleural space.
The tube is connected to a drainage system (underwater seal bottle or vacuum suction).
The tube is secured with stitches and covered with a sterile dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a chest tube and a pigtail catheter?

A chest tube is wider, used for large drainage; a pigtail is thinner, less invasive, and often used for smaller fluid or air collections.

2. Is the procedure painful?

Local anesthesia is given, so you should only feel pressure, not sharp pain. Some soreness may persist.

3. How long does the tube stay in?

It depends on the cause, could be 1–2 days for pneumothorax, longer for infection or cancer fluid.

4. Can I move around with a chest tube?

Yes, but movements may be limited; the drainage bottle should remain below chest level.

Chest Tube/Pigtail Drainage