Drainology: Leveraging research in chest-drain management to enhance recovery after cardiothoracic surgery
CardiacChest Drain ManagementDrain CharacteristicsERASMaintenance of PatencyMediastinal DrainagePleural Drainage
This review introduces the concept of “Drainology” – the science of chest drain management – and highlights the significant variation in postoperative drainage practices across cardiothoracic surgery. Drawing on expert discussions from the AATS Drainology symposium and subsequent research, the authors identify chest drain management as a critical yet under‑standardized component of perioperative care. The review underscores the need for evidence‑based protocols and further research to optimize drainage strategies, reduce practice variability, and improve patient outcomes.
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