Ministry of Health

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 Published: 28/11/2011

Chest tube insertion

Indications for tube thoracostomy
Tube thoracostomy (chest tube insertion) is indicated in the following circumstances.

1. Haemothorax on chest x-ray
2. Significant pneumothorax (>20% loss of diameter on chest x-ray)
3. Severe lung injury or any pneumothorax, no matter how small on chest x-ray, in a patient who is to be transported by ground or air, or is to undergo GA or positive pressure ventilation
4. As a diagnostic / therapeutic procedure in the unstable multi-trauma patient with suspected internal haemorrhage into the chest
5. Small pneumothorax or surgical emphysema if patient is to undergo positive pressure ventilation.

Last updated on 28/11/2011