Drains
Indications
- Drain collections
- Prevention of collections before they accumulate
Pros:
- Drainage removes potential sources of infection
- May be early indicator of anastamotic leakage
- Leaves a tract for drainage (once removed)
Cons:
- May increase infections
- May induce leakage
Classification
- Active / passive
- Active: Maintained under suction (high or low pressure)
- Passive: No suction (relies on pressure differences between cavities)
- Open / closed
- Open: Corrugated sheets drains into gauze or bag. May become infected
- Closed: Tubed draining into bag. Less risk of infection
- Material
- Minimal tissue reaction
- Tissue reaction - eg in biliary surgery
Examples
Chest drains
Abdominal drains
Urinary catheters
VP Shunts / EVDs
