Abstract

TAPIAS, Leonidas; TAPIAS-VARGAS, Luis Felipe  and  TAPIAS-VARGAS, Leonidas. Complications of tube thoracostomy. rev. colomb. cir. [online]. 2009, vol.24, n.1, pp.46-55. ISSN 2011-7582.

Drainage of the thoracic cavity is a frequent clinical procedure performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Most common indications are related with conditions where air, blood, lymph, pleural fluid, pus, and other materials accumulate in the chest cavity. It is important to know the technique of tube thoracostomy and be familiar with the more frequent associated complications. We have performed a literature review with emphasis on the complications associated with the insertion of intrathoracic tubes. Most papers encountered in the literature are retrospective studies in the context of trauma. General complications rate vary from 3.4% to 36%. Complications derived from tube insertion occur in 0% to 7.9% of cases, those derived from the position of the tube occur in 2.4% to 33.3%, and septic complications in 0.8% to 12%, with empyema in 1.1% to 2.7%. Anedoctal complications are also reported. Complications derived from tube thoracostomy are frequent and in many cases clinically relevant. Blunt dissection technique, appropriate skill and knowledge, and the early identification and management of possible complications tend to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates associated with this porocedure.

Keywords : Thoracic injuries; thoracostomy; complications; diagnosis; clinical evolution.

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