Chest drainage – indications, technique, and management of complications

Although the insertion of a chest drain is a minor and common surgical procedure performed across all types of surgical departments, it continues to raise some uncertainties in clinical practice regarding indications, optimal timing of removal, and management of potential complications. Moreover, chest drainage is often performed by physicians from non-surgical specialties, particularly in intensive care settings or pulmonary departments. The aim of this review article is to clarify the key aspects of chest drainage through easily applicable recommendations based on current scientific evidence. The publication primarily focuses on the acute insertion of chest drains for pneumothorax and pleural effusion, addressing the anatomical and technical specifics of the procedure, proper localization of the drainage site, selection of an appropriate drain, principles of patient care, prevention and recognition of potentially serious conditions, and management of the most common complications.