Chest Tube Insertion: What to Expect & Outcomes
A comprehensive guide to chest tube insertion, the procedure that treats a collapsed lung by draining trapped air.
Treatment begins with
Assessment
Procedure
Recovery
Removal
This procedure is considered for a pneumothorax large enough to cause significant breathlessness.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- Pneumothorax causing significant breathlessness
- A larger collapsed lung on chest imaging
- Recurrent pneumothorax
- Pneumothorax not resolving with observation
A pulmonologist's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What is Chest Tube Insertion?
A chest tube is placed through a small incision in the chest wall to drain trapped air, allowing the collapsed lung to re-expand.
Most lungs re-expand fully once the trapped air is drained through the tube.
When This Treatment is Considered
This procedure is considered for a pneumothorax large enough to cause significant breathlessness.
- Pneumothorax causing significant breathlessness
- A larger collapsed lung on chest imaging
- Recurrent pneumothorax
- Pneumothorax not resolving with observation
The Care Pathway
1. Assessment
Chest imaging confirms the size and location of the collapsed lung.
2. Procedure
A chest tube is inserted under local anesthesia to drain the trapped air.
3. Recovery
The tube remains in place for a few days while the lung re-expands, monitored with follow-up X-rays.
4. Removal
The tube is removed once imaging confirms the lung has fully re-expanded.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to recovery and follow-up.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Risks
Chest tube insertion effectively re-expands the lung in most patients. Your care team will discuss individual risks before the procedure.
Every treatment has potential risks. Your care team will discuss your individual risks before treatment.
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients are discharged within a few days, once the tube is removed and the lung remains expanded.
Your care plan includes activity restrictions during recovery and a follow-up visit to confirm the lung remains expanded.
Careful monitoring, follow-up testing and guidance all play an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.How long will the chest tube stay in place?
- 2.What is my risk of this happening again?
- 3.When can I resume normal activities?
- 4.Should I avoid flying after this?
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right pulmonologist.
Talk to Care GuideRelated Care
A care guide can match your condition to the right pulmonologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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