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My Relative Had A Tube Sticking Out Of Her Chest.

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Posted on Fri, 16 Aug 2019
Question: My relative had a tube sticking out of her chest. I dared not ask what it was, but took a picture. Should I be worried? What could it be for? https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TgUQF1cuaVRhUCRgsKZw7nRvxjjKipDR/view?usp=sharing
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Chest drain visible

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.

As I can see from this photo this seems to be chest drain or thoracic tube. This is used for the treatment of lung issues such as water in lungs, pneumothorax, or after cardiac surgeries.

Secondly, if she had recent surgery, then drains may be used to evacuate hematoma or swelling. In every case, your relative should have to get instructions prior to discharge. The tube is usually left for 3-7 days, you should just watch out not to pull it out and look for signs of infection around it.

Wish you good health.
Regards


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich

General Surgeon

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 13888 Questions

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My Relative Had A Tube Sticking Out Of Her Chest.

Brief Answer: Chest drain visible Detailed Answer: Hi and welcome. As I can see from this photo this seems to be chest drain or thoracic tube. This is used for the treatment of lung issues such as water in lungs, pneumothorax, or after cardiac surgeries. Secondly, if she had recent surgery, then drains may be used to evacuate hematoma or swelling. In every case, your relative should have to get instructions prior to discharge. The tube is usually left for 3-7 days, you should just watch out not to pull it out and look for signs of infection around it. Wish you good health. Regards