An experimental comparative study on classic tube thoracostomy and thoracostomy with a newly designed thorax drainage...

The collection of fluids, blood, pus, or air in the pleural cavity is a pathological condition requiring pleural drainage. A newly designed thorax drainage catheter in the prototype phase was used in this experimental study to test its efficacy.

A hemopneumothorax was first caused by a penetrating injury on the frontal axis of the sixth intercostal space on the right hemithorax with a scalpel on 6 female Sus domesticus swine subjects. After resting for 5 min, a tube or catheter was inserted. The same procedure with a tube thoracostomy or thorax drainage catheter was repeated on the left hemithorax. The time periods were recorded. After all procedures were completed, the thoracic organs were assessed for iatrogenic injuries.

In terms of time elapsed for procedure, statistically significant differences between the tube thoracostomy and thorax drainage catheter applications were identified (P < 0.05). Additional iatrogenic injuries were nonexistent for both groups. During the thorax drainage catheter application, a surgical set or the use of sutures was not required.

This study showed promising results regarding the efficacy of the thorax drainage catheter for convenient use in prehospital and hospital settings by physicians with little experience with tube thoracostomy.