Best evidence topic reports. BET 4: Does it matter whether a chest drain is aimed upwards or downwards for the optimum drainage of fluid or air from the pleural cavity?

摘要

In [a patient presenting with a pleural effusion that requires draining] should [the chest drain be inserted apically or basally] to [drain most efficiently] ? A patient presents to the emergency department with significant dyspnoea. A chest x-ray reveals a pleural effusion. Should the chest drain be aimed apically or basally to drain efficiently?