Performing appropriate cleaning and care of your PleurX catheter will prevent complications and allow the drain to function as intended. Once fully awake in the recovery room, your nurse will provide home-care instructions.The medical team will clean the catheter site and dress your incisions with bandages.When the catheter is in place, your doctor will either cap it or collect initial drainage.The catheter drains the fluid through its multiple openings and has a valve to block air. Your doctor will make one small incision into the pleural space and a second incision nearby, passing the catheter between the openings through a tunnel under the skin.You will receive a local numbing anesthetic to prevent pain from the incisions.Your doctor determines placement of the PleurX catheter based on the affected lung.Once in the procedure room, you’ll receive medication to make you drowsy.A nurse will place an intravenous (IV) line in your hand or arm.You will have time to ask questions before you sign the consent form, and a nurse will provide instructions on home care before you leave. Your doctor will place your PleurX catheter during a procedure that takes about 45 to 90 minutes. What to Expect from a PleurX Catheter Placement The PleurX catheter drains fluid buildup and reduces uncomfortable or painful symptoms for patients with pleural effusions. The pleura are layers of tissue that surround your lungs and chest cavity, and a small amount of fluid between the tissue layers helps your lungs expand and contract.ĭoctors recommend a PleurX catheter for patients with certain thoracic diseases, such as lung cancer, which can cause excess fluid to accumulate in the pleural space and restrict lung movement. What Is a PleurX Catheter?Ī PleurX drainage catheter is a small, flexible tube that doctors place within the patient’s chest to drain fluid from the pleural space. Proper care for your catheter will maximize drainage and prevent complications such as infection. A PleurX catheter acts as a drain and makes it easier for you to breathe. Extra fluid that builds up around your lungs can prevent them from expanding and cause you to feel short of breath.
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