Chest tube insertion, also known as intercostal drainage, is a life-saving procedure used to remove air, fluid, blood, or pus from the pleural space. It helps the lungs re-expand properly and restores normal breathing.

At Dr. Raju's Chest Centre & Multispeciality Hospital, chest tube insertion is performed with precision and strict safety protocols to ensure effective treatment and patient comfort.

Chest tube insertion involves placing a sterile tube between the ribs into the pleural space to drain abnormal collections such as air (pneumothorax), fluid (pleural effusion), blood (hemothorax), or infected pus (empyema).

This procedure allows the lungs to expand fully and improves oxygen levels in the body.

At Dr. Raju's Chest Centre & Multispeciality Hospital, chest tube insertion is performed under expert supervision with advanced monitoring systems:

• Pre-procedure clinical and imaging evaluation
• Local anesthesia for pain control
• Ultrasound guidance when required
• Strict sterile technique
• Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels and vital signs
• Regular follow-up imaging to confirm lung expansion

The tube remains in place until drainage reduces and the lung has fully re-expanded.

Chest tube insertion is generally safe when performed by experienced specialists. Rare complications may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain at the insertion site
• Tube blockage or displacement

Careful monitoring and expert technique significantly reduce these risks.