A standardised comparison of chest and percutaneous drainage catheters to evaluate the applicability of the ‘French’ sizing units

Karan Daga, Graham D. Milward, Daniel Pintos dos Santos, Derek W. Edwards & Hans-Ulrich Laasch  |  January 10, 2025

Papers

This study evaluated the internal diameters and flow rates of 6 Fr–12 Fr drainage catheters from eight manufacturers under standardized conditions. Results revealed significant variability in internal dimensions and performance, with some smaller catheters outperforming larger ones. Notably, thin-walled 10 Fr drains exceeded the flow rates of certain 12 Fr…

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Drainology: Leveraging research in chest-drain management to enhance recovery after cardiothoracic surgery

Kevin W. Lobdell, Louis P. Perrault, Rachel H. Drgastin, Alessandro Brunelli, Robert J. Cerfolio, Daniel T. Engelman, ERAS Cardiac Society Working Group  |  April 9, 2024

Papers

Central Message Wide variation in the use of chest drains after cardiothoracic surgery can compromise consistency of care and outcomes. The new science of drainology represents an opportunity for quality improvement. Perspective Current practices for chest drain management are typically based on clinical tradition because of a lack of quality…

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Chest tube management: Past, present, and future directions for developing evidence-based best practices

Kevin W. Lobdell, MD and Daniel T. Engelman, MD  |  February 20, 2021

Papers

In the PAST, traditional practice with eminence-based therapies have led to a wide variation of practice. PRESENTLY, new technology has emerged, confounders and variables are being addressed. Yet, quality evidence is rare. This review article surveys what is available regarding chest drain management practices. Scientific gaps, unmet needs, and opportunities…

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