Drain

Drain is a medical term referring to a device used to remove pus, blood or other fluids from a wound or surgical site. Drains can be made of various materials, including rubber, plastic, or metal, and can be open or closed systems. They are used in a variety of medical procedures, from minor surgeries to major operations.

Types of Drains

There are several types of drains used in medical procedures, including:

• Penrose Drain: A Penrose drain is a soft, flat, flexible tube made of latex. It is often used in surgical procedures to prevent the buildup of fluid.

• Jackson-Pratt Drain: This is a closed-suction drain that uses a bulb to create negative pressure. It is commonly used after abdominal or thoracic surgeries.

• Hemovac Drain: Similar to the Jackson-Pratt, the Hemovac drain is a closed system that uses a larger, portable vacuum container. It is often used after orthopedic and reconstructive surgeries.

• Chest Tube: A chest tube is used to drain air, fluid, or blood from the space around the lungs or heart.

Uses of Drains

Drains are used in a variety of medical procedures, including:

• Surgery: Drains are often used in surgical procedures to prevent the buildup of fluid, which can cause complications.

• Wound Care: In wound care, drains are used to remove pus, blood, or other fluids from a wound to promote healing.

• Infection Control: Drains can also be used to help control infections by removing infected fluids.

Risks and Complications

While drains can be very beneficial, they also come with risks and potential complications, such as:

• Infection: Any time a foreign object is inserted into the body, there is a risk of infection.

• Bleeding: There is also a risk of bleeding, especially if the drain is placed near a blood vessel.

• Damage to Surrounding Tissues: There is a risk that the drain could damage surrounding tissues, especially if it is not placed correctly.

Removal of Drains

The removal of drains is usually a simple procedure that can be done in a doctor's office. The drain is gently pulled out, and the site is then cleaned and bandaged. Pain during removal is usually minimal.

See Also

• Surgery
• Wound Care
• Infection Control

Drain Resources
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