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Chest Tube Management and Drainage

Content Type: Protocols | Provider

Created: September 30, 2023
Contributor: Marc Gillinov MD
Editors: Cheryl Crisafi MSN RN CNL • Amanda Rea DNP CRNP AGACNP-BC CCRN CMC CSC E-AEC • Gina McConnell RN BSN CCRN • Shannon Crotwell RN BSN CCRN • Alexander Gregory MD FRCPC
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Summary

Retained Blood Syndrome (RBS) is a significant postoperative concern in cardiac surgery. It occurs when blood accumulates in the mediastinum or pericardial space and is not adequately drained. Maintaining chest tube patency is essential to prevent retained blood, reduce inflammatory response, and optimize hemodynamic and respiratory function. Structured approaches to chest tube management align with ERAS Cardiac principles and may reduce complications, postoperative interventions, and length of stay.

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AI Assistance Statement

This summary was developed with assistance from artificial intelligence and reviewed, edited, and approved by the listed editor(s). Reference: OpenAI (2025). ChatGPT (November version) [Large language model]. 
https://chat.openai.com

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References

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