Retrospective assessment of pediatric patients with tube thoracostomy inserted in a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to examine the indications for tube thoracostomy (TT) procedures in pediatric intensive care units and to analyze the role of chest X-rays in the subsequent monitoring and management of patients. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 31 pediatric patients aged 1 month to 18 years who had been admitted between January 2023 to July 2023 at Sancaktepe Şehit Prof. Dr. İlhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, were performed. Children who underwent TT were included. Demographic data, clinical variables, and outcome data were analyzed Results: The median age was 50 (4-214) months, and the gender distribution of the patients was almost equal. The median duration of a PICU stay was 10 (4-100) days. Pneumothorax (PTX) was diagnosed in 45,1%, pleural effusion in 38,7%, and hemothorax in 16,1% of patients. Six (19,4%) patients experienced complications related to chest tubes. Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) was required in 19 patients (61,3%), and the median duration of IMV was 9 (3-93) days. A total of 23 patients (74,2%) required non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) support during their stay in PICU. There was no statistically significant difference between indications of TT and length of stay, NIMV and IMV requirement, duration of TT, complications, and mortality. Conclusion: TT is a life-saving interventional procedure in emergencies. The absence of proper execution of this technique may result in considerable morbidity and fatality. Hence, all clinicians must possess a comprehensive understanding of the tube thoracostomy operation.