No chest tube protocol in video-assisted thoracic surgery procedures

Abstract EN

The urge for less pain, earlier mobility, low financial cost, and better cosmetic outcome has driven the everlasting pursuit of thoracic surgeons for smaller incisions, low port number, and shorter hospital stay.

Management of chest tubes is pivotal in the postoperative care of patients submitted to thoracic surgeries.

However, thoracic surgeons have traditionally managed chest tubes based more on their experience and personal preference rather than guided by an evidenced‑based approach.

Chest tubes increase the rate of postoperative pain and hospital stay, and the removal of a chest tube improves ventilator function and reduces chest pain after pulmonary resection.

Removing a chest tube sooner not only has financial benefits but also has beneficial functional effects for the patient.

Upon witnessing the benefits of early removal of chest tubes after video‑assisted thoracic surgery procedures, some surgeons are starting to adopt a no chest tube protocol especially in thoracic procedures, in which the lung is left untouched.

Upon reviewing the papers published on avoiding chest tubes in video‑assisted thoracic surgery procedures, it showed that such a technique can be safely used without affecting the quality of the procedures.

Moreover, it can lead to a more favorable postoperative course.