A chest tube is a plastic tube that is used to drain fluid or air from the chest. Air or fluid (for example blood or pus) that collects in the space between the lungs and chest wall (the pleural space) can …

Jan 4, 2026 · With proper medical intervention, such as a chest tube or surgery, many people recover fully. Chronic or recurrent cases require ongoing care. Immediate evaluation is crucial, as delaying …

If you have signs or symptoms of a collapsed lung, such as chest pain or trouble breathing, get medical care right away. Your provider can determine the best form of treatment for you.

Aug 8, 2024 · A hollow needle with a small flexible tube (catheter) is inserted between the ribs into the air-filled space that's pressing on the collapsed lung. Then the doctor removes the needle, attaches a …

Jul 5, 2025 · Then, a tube will be placed into the chest cavity to keep the lung re-inflated for a few days. If a chest tube and needle treatment fail to work, your doctor might recommend surgery as a …

Jan 8, 2025 · The chest tube may be left in place for several days and you may need to stay in the hospital. If a small chest tube or flutter valve is used, you may be able to go home.

For most people, the pain goes away after about 2 weeks. You will have a bandage taped over the wound. Your doctor will remove the bandage and examine the wound in about 2 days. It will take …

Common reasons why a chest tube is needed include: Collapsed lung (pneumothorax)—This occurs when air has built up in the area around the lungs (the pleural space) from a leak in the lung. This …

Chest tube insertion (also called tube thoracostomy) is a procedure in which a tube is inserted into the space between the lung and chest wall (called the pleural space). The procedure is done to drain air …

Jun 16, 2018 · Doctors may need to use a chest tube for many purposes, such as inflating a collapsed lung, draining fluid or blood, or delivering medications. This article explains how chest tubes work,...