The British Journal of Radiology, Vol 73, Issue 871 786-790, Copyright © 2000 by British Institute of Radiology

ARTICLES

CT diagnosis of malpositioned chest tubes

G Gayer, J Rozenman, C Hoffmann, S Apter, DA Simansky, A Yellin and Y Itzchak
Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.

Insertion of a chest tube into the pleural space is standard management for various pleural disorders. Malpositioning of chest tubes in extrathoracic, intraparenchymal and mediastinal locations and in the fissures is common. Malpositioning results not only in inadequate drainage of air and fluid but may also result in increased morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis of a malpositioned tube is sometimes difficult to establish on a chest radiograph. CT, however, has proven to be extremely accurate in evaluating the position of a chest tube and has often provided additional valuable information with significant therapeutic impact.

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