Rinnusüsteemi

Rinnusüsteemi refers to the thoracic drainage system, a medical procedure used to remove fluid, blood, or air from the pleural space. The pleural space is the thin area between the lungs and the chest wall. When this space fills with abnormal substances, it can cause the lung to collapse, leading to breathing difficulties.

The procedure involves inserting a tube, known as a chest tube or thoracostomy tube, into the pleural space through an incision in the chest wall. This tube is then connected to a drainage system, typically a sealed container with a water seal or a more advanced suction device. The negative pressure created by the system allows the fluid, blood, or air to be drawn out of the pleural space, enabling the lung to re-expand.

Rinnusüsteemi is indicated in various conditions, including pneumothorax (collapsed lung due to air in the pleural space), hemothorax (blood in the pleural space), pleural effusion (excess fluid in the pleural space), and empyema (pus in the pleural space). It is also used post-operatively after certain chest surgeries to prevent complications.

The insertion of the chest tube is usually performed under local anesthesia. While generally safe, potential complications can include pain at the insertion site, bleeding, infection, or injury to surrounding structures. The duration of chest tube drainage varies depending on the underlying condition and the rate of fluid or air removal. Once the pleural space is clear and the lung has fully re-expanded, the chest tube is removed.