Thoracic Catheter Sizes: A Comprehensive Guide
Thoracic catheters, commonly known as chest tubes, are essential medical devices used to evacuate air, fluid, or blood from the pleural space, thereby facilitating proper lung expansion and function. Selecting the appropriate catheter size is crucial for effective treatment and minimizing patient discomfort. This article provides an overview of thoracic catheter sizes, their measurement system, and considerations for selection based on clinical scenarios.