Improved triple lumen all purpose drains and their care and management

A triple lumen all purpose drain has become well established over the past decade as an all purpose drain. It permits either overflow or suction (closed or sump) drainage, aspiration for the taking of cultures or analysis of fluid, irrigation either continuous or intermittent, and the instillation of medications. Further improvements have been made in the drain in the quest for the ideal surgical drain. It is now made of silicone, has a radiopaque stripe, a suture sleeve, a triple lumen molded connector with a drainage tube, irrigation port, bacterial filter, and stoppers. The advantages of these additions are presented. In addition, the drain is being made in two sizes; the smaller one is indicated in pediatric, breast, plastic, head and neck, and other procedures. The care and management of these drains is discussed.