Chest Tube Insertion (ICD)

Chest tube insertion, also known as intercostal drainage (ICD), is a life-saving procedure used to drain air, fluid, or blood from the pleural space surrounding the lungs. This treatment is vital for managing conditions such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, or hemothorax. At Emirates Hospitals, the procedure is performed by experienced specialists using advanced techniques to ensure safety and comfort for patients.

Understanding Chest Tube Insertion

Chest tube insertion is recommended for various conditions, including:

• Pneumothorax: Air accumulation in the pleural space.
• Hemothorax: Blood in the pleural space.
• Pleural Effusion: Fluid buildup caused by infections, cancer, or heart failure.
• Post-Surgical Needs: After lung or chest surgeries to prevent complications.

The goal of ICD is to re-expand the lung, relieve symptoms, and restore normal breathing.

Procedure Overview

1. Preparation:
   • Imaging studies, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, are performed to locate the problem.
   • Local anesthesia is administered to numb the chest area.
2. Tube Placement:
   • A small incision is made between the ribs.
   • A flexible tube is inserted into the pleural space to drain air, fluid, or blood.
3. Post-Procedure Monitoring:
   • The tube is connected to a drainage system and monitored for effectiveness.
   • Patients remain under observation to ensure proper lung re-expansion.

Benefits of Chest Tube Insertion

• Immediate relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.
• Effective management of pleural conditions.
• Minimally invasive procedure with quick recovery.
• Thorough post-procedure monitoring to prevent complications.