Intercostal catheter insertion and removal

Overview

Chest trauma is the second most common traumatic injury in non-intentional trauma. (NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation, 2016) Trauma to the chest is associated with the highest mortality; in some studies, up to 60% depending on the mechanism of injury. (Doyle & McCutcheon, 2015). Blunt chest trauma accounts for 90% of thoracic injuries and requires prompt recognition and management to reduce morbidity and mortality (NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation, 2016).

Knowledge of likely sequelae of injury patterns are key factors for assessment, management
and patient survival.

Description

This resource kit provides healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills to perform the insertion of an intercostal catheter (ICC) to manage a patient with blunt chest trauma, including the indications and considerations for ICC placement.

Learning objectives

Recognise the indications for ICC insertion including:

• size of haemothorax/pneumothorax
• timing of insertion and associated clinical features.

Understand the considerations for ICC placement and management including:

• size of ICC
• location of ICC insertion
• potential complications of insertion and removal of chest drains.

Downloads

Further reading