Novel Chest Tube Anchoring and Closure Technique with an Aesthetic Scar

Abstract

Technique: This chest tube anchoring technique differs from other techniques by introducing 2 layered closure to avoid wound healing complications such as hypertrophic or keloid scar and to achieve airtight closure. The first suture to be used is a monofilament synthetic absorbable 4/0 suture – Monocryl (Johnson & Johnson, New Jersey, USA) that is passed as a buried stitch in the dermal layer. The second suture to be used is a monofilament non-absorbable 3/0 suture – Prolene (Johnson & Johnson, New Jersey, USA) that is passed around the chest tube incision in a horizontal mattress manner taking the muscle/fascia and skin layers. The chest tube is then anchored with a 2/0 silk suture with a mesentery. The three suture ends are secured and wrapped around the chest tube with Steri-Strips™ (3M™, Minnesota, USA). Two long dressings are sandwiched together, partially on skin and partially on the tube as dressing anchors. Results: This technique has shown good results with no complications. Routine chest radiograph and physical examination showed no signs of pneumothorax or discharge from the wound nor any wound healing complications. Conclusion: This chest tube anchoring and closure technique is secure and produces an aesthetic pleasing scar that does not require any expensive sutures or special skills.