A new device for pleural drainage in newborn infants.

OBJECTIVE: We tested a chest tube device and insertion technique designed to reduce complications and expedite effective thoracostomy tube placement.

METHODOLOGY: This is a case series study. We placed chest tubes using this device in 25 infants ranging in weight from 425 to 3500 g. This investigation was performed in a regional referral center neonatal intensive care unit.

RESULTS: Using this device, chest tube insertion was safe and effective. No complications were identified.

CONCLUSION: We believe percutaneous placement of small-bore pigtail catheters using this technique represents a useful alternative to the standard approach of thoracostomy tube placement in small infants.

SYNOPSIS: To reduce complications during thoracostomy tube placement and to expedite tube insertion, we modified a chest tube device for use in premature infants. This technique and device facilitates quick and accurate placement. We placed chest tubes using this device in 25 infants ranging from 425 to 3500 g. Using this device, chest tube insertion is quick, easy, and safe. No complications were identified. We believe percutaneous placement of small-bore pigtail catheters using this technique represents a useful alternative to the standard approaches of thoracostomy tube placement in small infants.