SuctionDrainage

Suction drainage is a medical technique that uses negative pressure to remove fluids, air, or debris from wounds, body cavities, or organs through a drain connected to a vacuum source.

How it works: A tubing-connected drain is placed at the site of interest; a suction device maintains continuous or intermittent negative pressure, drawing fluid into a collection reservoir. Evacuating fluid helps prevent accumulation, compresses tissues to reduce dead space, and can facilitate healing. The closed design minimizes exposure to the environment and contamination.

Devices and configuration: Most systems use a suction canister or bottle, tubing, and a drainage catheter or tube positioned in the wound or cavity. The vacuum is supplied by wall suction or portable devices; regulators set the desired pressure. In chest drainage, systems are typically adjusted for low to moderate negative pressures to avoid tissue injury while maintaining effective drainage.

Indications: Postoperative drainage to remove serous or sanguineous fluid, pleural drainage after thoracic procedures, management of infected collections, abscess drainage, and prevention of fluid accumulation in large wounds or cavities.

Advantages and limitations: Suction drainage provides efficient removal of fluid and air, reduces edema and dead space, and allows ongoing monitoring of drainage output. Potential drawbacks include risk of tissue injury from excessive suction, obstruction by clots, dislodgement, infection if not properly managed, and patient discomfort.

Management considerations: Drain sites require aseptic care; monitor the volume and character of drainage; avoid abrupt changes in suction; clamp only when necessary to change collectors or reposition the drain; remove the drain when output is minimal and there is no ongoing collection.