How do chest tubes work to fix a collapsed lung?

A collapsed lung, also known as a pneumothorax, occurs when air or gas builds up in the pleural space, the area between the lung and the chest wall. This can cause the lung to partially or completely collapse, making it difficult to breathe.

A chest tube is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the pleural space to allow the air or gas to escape and the lung to re-expand. The chest tube is typically inserted through a small incision in the chest wall, and is then connected to a drainage system.

The drainage system creates suction that helps to draw the air or gas out of the pleural space. As the air or gas is removed, the lung is able to re-expand and resume normal function.

Chest tubes are typically left in place for several days, or until the lung has fully re-expanded and there is no longer any air or gas in the pleural space.

Here is a more detailed explanation of how chest tubes work:

1. The chest tube is inserted into the pleural space. The chest tube is typically inserted through a small incision in the chest wall, between the ribs. The doctor may use a local anesthetic to numb the area before inserting the chest tube.

2. The chest tube is connected to a drainage system. The chest tube is connected to a drainage system that creates suction. The suction helps to draw the air or gas out of the pleural space.

3. The lung re-expands. As the air or gas is removed from the pleural space, the lung is able to re-expand. The lung will continue to re-expand until it reaches its normal size.

4. The chest tube is removed. The chest tube is typically left in place for several days, or until the lung has fully re-expanded and there is no longer any air or gas in the pleural space. Once the lung has re-expanded, the chest tube can be removed.

Chest tubes are a safe and effective way to treat a collapsed lung. Most people who have a chest tube inserted are able to recover fully and resume normal activities.