Randomized Multicenter Trial of -8 cmH2O versus -15 cmH2O Intrathoracic Pressure Digital Thoracic Drainage for Air Leaks after Anatomical Pulmonary Resection Short title: Optimal pressure for thoracic drainage
This multicenter, randomized controlled trial compared two intrathoracic pressure settings (−8 cmH₂O vs. −15 cmH₂O) in digital pleural drainage for patients with moderate air leaks after lung resection. No significant differences were found in prolonged air leak rates, air leak duration, chest tube duration, or hospital stay between groups. The findings suggest that adjusting negative intrathoracic pressure above −8 cmH₂O does not accelerate air leak resolution, and pressure settings can be tailored to individual patient needs.
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