Evaluation of small-bore wire-guided chest drains for management of pleural space disease.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and practicality of a small-bore wire-guided chest drain for management of pleural space disease in dogs and cats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 14 gauge chest drain was placed using a modified Seldinger technique in animals requiring ongoing management of pleural space disease. A questionnaire was used immediately after placement to collect data regarding the ease of placement, reliability and function of the drain.

RESULTS: Twenty animals were enrolled in which 29 drains were placed. The most common pleural space disease encountered was pyothorax (10 of 20). Sixteen animals required sedation for placement, and 25 of 29 chest drains were inserted at the first attempt. Most drains were placed in less than 10 minutes. The median length of time of catheter use was three days. Few complications were noted during the insertion and throughout the use of the drains. Clinicians rated drain placement as "easy" in 27 of 29 times and the drain function as "good" in 24 of 29 times.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Small-bore wire-guided chest drains are an effective alternative to larger gauge drains. Only minor complications were seen during insertion of the chest drains, and their performance was deemed satisfactory in most cases.