ICD (Intercostal Drainage) -

What Is ICD?

Intercostal drainage tube insertion is an emergency as well as a planned procedure. In an emergency, it is one of the life-saving procedures. That’s why it is important to learn the anatomy and physiology behind the insertion of an ICD and what should be the ideal procedure and post-procedure care.

An intercostal drain (also known as a chest drain or pleural drain) is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space. It is used to drain pneumothoraxes or effusions from the intrathoracic space. All intercostal drains inserted for pleural effusions should be real-time ultrasound-guided

Indications for intercostal drain insertion (chest drain/pleural drain)

Unresolved primary pneumothorax greater than 2 cm after 2 attempts at aspiration
Secondary pneumothorax greater than 2 cm
Unilateral pleural effusion causing breathlessnesss – insert drain to relieve symptoms and aid diagnosis
Empyema
Bilateral pleural effusions if decompensated despite optimal medical management
Tension pneumothorax after needle decompression
Palliation of breathlessness in malignant pleural effusions
dilate insertion site with index finger
To facilitate pleurodesis

ICD (Intercostal Drainage)