title: Chest tube thoracostomy.
abstract: Knowledge of the indications, placement, and management of chest tubes in the intensive care unit is essential for the care of the critically ill patient. Awareness of the complications and mechanical difficulties that can occur with chest tubes and their drainage systems is essential for the safe and effective use of these devices.
authors.affiliation: Division of Surgery, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York.
authors.forename: T J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Iberti
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Stern
mesh_terms: D015505:Chest Tubes / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000592:standards*; D003663:Decision Trees; D006801:Humans; D008283:Maintenance; D011030:Pneumothorax / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D013907:Thoracostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards