Pigtail Chest Catheter Placement with Ultrasound Guidance

Abstract

A bedside thoracentesis is performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in patients with pleural effusions.The needle should be advanced just above the superior aspect of the rib to avoid injuries to the neurovascular bundle (intercostal artery, vein, and nerve) (Fig. 9.1).The use of ultrasound for guidance is recommended to reduce the risk of complications.A low-frequency (3.5--5 MHz) ultrasound transducer is best suited for thoracentesis.The patient should be evaluated for any risk factors (e.g., coagulopathy).