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Dysfunctional Closed Chest Drainage - Common Causative Factors and Recommendations for Prevention
Usman Hashmi1, Muhammad Nadeem2, Abdul Aleem1
1Thoracic Surgery, Nishtar Medical University/hospital Multan, Pakistan.
Cureus
|May 12, 2018
Summary
Dysfunctional closed chest drainage units (CDUs) are common after tube thoracostomy. The leading cause is incorrect CDU connections, highlighting the need for strict adherence to protocols to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Devices
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Chest drainage units (CDUs) are critical for managing pleural collections after tube thoracostomy.
- Dysfunction of CDUs can lead to increased patient morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the primary causes of closed chest drainage unit (CDU) dysfunction.
- To determine the frequency of these dysfunction factors.
- To propose recommendations for preventing CDU dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- An observational study was conducted on patients undergoing tube thoracostomy.
- Data were collected from February 2015 to January 2017 at Nishter Medical University, Pakistan.
- Chest X-rays and CT scans were used to assess tube placement and identify causes of dysfunction in 139 patients.
Main Results:
- The most frequent cause of CDU dysfunction was incorrect CDU connections (17.3%).
- Other significant issues included inadequate priming fluid, loose connections, kinked tubes, and overfilled collection bottles.
- A total of 139 cases of CDU dysfunction were analyzed.
Conclusions:
- Closed chest drainage unit (CDU) dysfunction is a preventable clinical problem.
- Implementing and adhering to proper tube thoracostomy protocols can mitigate common causes of CDU dysfunction.
- Standardized procedures are essential for ensuring effective chest drainage and improving patient outcomes.
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