title: Thoracentesis and chest tube drainage.
abstract: Thoracentesis can be used as both a diagnostic and a therapeutic tool. Tube thoracostomy can be life saving. Each technique requires familiarity with the principles of pulmonary and pleural anatomy and physiology. It is mandatory that all pulmonary and critical care practitioners be familiar with the indications, benefits, and risks of these interventions to prevent devastating complications.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Quigley
mesh_terms: D015505:Chest Tubes; D003422:Critical Care; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D004630:Emergencies; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D013907:Thoracostomy / Q000295:instrumentation*