Abstract
Aim The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the treatment of patients with
spontaneous pneumothorax with air leak (AL) using two different chest drainage systems.
Methods Patients were randomized into two groups: group A included 30 patients (23 males
and 7 females, mean age 41.1 ± 16.29 y, range 17–71 y) in which digital drainage system
was used, group B with 30 patients (22 males and 8 females, mean age 40.3 ± 15.74 y,
range 18–72 y) in which traditional suction drainage system was applied.
The following variables were evaluated: intensity of AL, duration of the chest tube
drainage, delay in surgery, length of stay, and the overall hospitalization costs.
Results In group A the mean drainage duration was 47.63 hours, the hospitalization time was
about 5.10 days, and the cost of hospitalization was €1,495. In group B the mean drainage
duration was 84.93 hours, the hospitalization time was 6.97 days, and the hospitalization
cost was €1,925.
Conclusion The digital drainage system applied in the treatment of AL in patients with pneumothoraces
reduced the duration of the drainage, the length of hospital stay, and overall hospitalization
costs.
Keywords
spontaneous pneumothorax - air leak - digital drainage system - suction drainage system
