Tube thoracostomy: Increased angle of insertion is associated with complications.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Tube thoracostomy (TT), considered a routine procedure, has significant complications. Current recommendations for placement rely on surface anatomy. There is no information to guide operators regarding angle of insertion relative to chest wall. We aim to determine if angle of insertion is associated with complications of TT.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of adult trauma patients who necessitated TT at a Level I trauma center over a 2-year period (January 2012 to December 2013). Tube thoracostomies performed intraoperatively or using radiological guidance were excluded. Thoracic anteroposterior or posteroanterior radiographs were reviewed to determine the angle of insertion of TT relative to the thoracic wall. A previously validated classification

SUBMITTER: Hernandez MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4961544 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature