HomeGeneral WardChest Tube:Chest Tube Size 18
Chest Tube:Chest Tube Size 18
1 /

Chest Tube:Chest Tube Size 18

Price on Request
Share This

Description

A chest tube, or thoracostomy tube, is a flexible, sterile tube used to remove air, fluid, or pus from the pleural space in the chest. The size 18 chest tube refers to a tube with a diameter of 18 French (Fr), where 1 French is approximately 0.33 millimeters. Thus, a size 18 chest tube has an outer diameter of about 6 millimeters. A size 18 chest tube is commonly used in both adult and pediatric patients for various thoracic conditions. It is typically used to manage moderate to large pleural effusions, pneumothorax, hemothorax, or after thoracic surgery to drain fluid or air from the pleural cavity. The tube is inserted through a small incision in the chest wall and connected to a drainage system, ensuring continuous evacuation of air or fluid, which allows the lung to re-expand and alleviates respiratory distress. Selecting the appropriate chest tube size is critical for effective drainage and patient comfort. The size 18 chest tube provides a balance between adequate drainage capacity and ease of insertion, making it a versatile choice for many clinical situations.