After surgery there was some leakage on left side and nurse applied gauze under chester binder. Two days later when I first took off binder to wash myself, I noticed some blood pooled under tape where drain tube is inserted. Today when cleaning I noticed some blood on chest binder where fluid leaked out. I spoke to the Dr on call and he said not to be concerned and I can apply new tape. I'm worried the tube might come out. I go back in two days to have tubes removed. Should I be concerned?
November 2, 2015
Answer: Drainage around tube Fluid can drain around the tube sometimes. I wouldn't be too worried about that. Best to keep in close contact and follow-up with your surgeon. Good luck.
Helpful
November 2, 2015
Answer: Drainage around tube Fluid can drain around the tube sometimes. I wouldn't be too worried about that. Best to keep in close contact and follow-up with your surgeon. Good luck.
Helpful
August 24, 2017
Answer: Leakage around drain Leakage around a drain site is quite normal. Just as fluid makes its way into the tubing, some can come out around the tubing. If your surgeon (or his or her covering colleague) said that you can apply new tape, you should feel free to do so. Your concern about pulling out the drain is understandable, but careful tape replacement making sure not to pull very much on the drain shouldn't pose a problem. However, if you aren't comfortable, it certainly isn't necessary to replace the tape. You can place some gauze over the area that is leaking to prevent it from getting on your garment or clothing. I completely understand your concern, but rest assured that this is quite common and not a cause for alarm. By the way, it looks like you have a very nice early result from your surgery. Congratulations.
Helpful
August 24, 2017
Answer: Leakage around drain Leakage around a drain site is quite normal. Just as fluid makes its way into the tubing, some can come out around the tubing. If your surgeon (or his or her covering colleague) said that you can apply new tape, you should feel free to do so. Your concern about pulling out the drain is understandable, but careful tape replacement making sure not to pull very much on the drain shouldn't pose a problem. However, if you aren't comfortable, it certainly isn't necessary to replace the tape. You can place some gauze over the area that is leaking to prevent it from getting on your garment or clothing. I completely understand your concern, but rest assured that this is quite common and not a cause for alarm. By the way, it looks like you have a very nice early result from your surgery. Congratulations.
Helpful
