Implementation of a user-friendly protocol for interpretation of air-leaks and management of intercostal chest drains after thoracic surgery.
We prospectively audited the implementation of a protocol for management of air-leaks and intercostal drains after thoracic surgical procedures. Out of the 99 patients who underwent thoracic surgical procedures during a 3-month period, 41 presented a postoperative air-leak on day 1. The protocol was strictly followed in 95% of the cases. The median drainage-time and hospital-stay were 3 and 4 days, respectively. The incidence of insertion of postoperative drains was 3%. Most of the nursing staff found the protocol user-friendly and easy to apply. A protocol for the management of postoperative air-leaks and intercostal drains can be implemented with high-compliance low complications.
The Price-Thomas Thoracic Surgical Unit, Northern General Hospital, Herries Road, Sheffield S5 7AU, UK.
Antonio E
AE
Martin-Ucar
Eliseo
E
Passera
Roger
R
Vaughan
Gaetano
G
Rocco