A chest tube is a flexible catheter inserted into the pleural space via a minimally invasive approach to facilitate drainage of air, blood, fluid, chyle, or infectious material — composed of polyvinyl chloride or silicone, featuring fenestrations near the insertion end to optimise drainage, and a radiopaque stripe for imaging confirmation of proper placement.
Available in sizes 18FR to 32FR, these tubes cover the full range of adult thoracic drainage requirements from simple pneumothorax to post-surgical haemothorax.
Key Features:
- Multiple drainage fenestrations — strategically positioned along the insertion end of the tube to maximise drainage efficiency within the pleural cavity
- Radiopaque stripe — runs the full length of the tube for easy imaging confirmation of correct placement via chest X-ray
- Depth markings — graduated markings every 2cm along the tube length to confirm and record insertion depth accurately
- Metallic trocar with handle — provides good grip and controlled, safe insertion through the chest wall; protective cap on distal end prevents accidental injury before use
- Transparent PVC body — allows direct visual monitoring of drainage colour, volume, and consistency
- Funnel connector — proximal end compatible with standard underwater seal drainage systems and chest drain bottles
- Sterile, single-use — individually packaged to eliminate infection risk.
Clinical Indications: Pneumothorax, haemothorax, pleural effusion, empyema, and post-surgical management of thoracic procedures — in both emergent and elective settings for managing thoracic injuries, pleural diseases, or complications requiring drainage.
Ideal For: Emergency departments, cardiothoracic surgery, ICUs, trauma units, and respiratory medicine wards.

