A Retrospective Analysis on Level of Suction in Digital Drainage Devices After Video-assisted Lobectomy in a Thoracic Surgery Centre

Abstract

Introduction: The management of chest tubes after pulmonary resection remains non- standardized, and suction levels are often determined by the surgeon's preference. This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of low suction −2cmH2O−2cmH2​O versus the conventional suction level used in our institution −15cmH2O−15cmH2​O using digital drainage devices after videoassisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy for suspected or confirmed lung cancer in a thoracic surgery centre.

Methods: We analysed 120 patients who underwent pleural drainage after VATS lobectomy between January 2023 and September 2024. The primary outcome was drainage duration. Secondary outcomes included hospital stay, prolonged air leak, complications, and readmissions.

Results: No significant differences were observed in drainage duration (2.0 vs. 4.0 days; p=0.125p=0.125) or hospital stay (3.0 vs. 4.0 days; p=0.104p=0.104 ). The incidence of prolonged air leak was similar between groups (20.3% vs. 24.6%; p=0.578p=0.578 ). However, subcutaneous emphysema occurred more frequently in the low suction group (22% vs. 8.2%; p=0.04p=0.04 ), with a higher need for intervention, despite comparable baseline forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) values between suction level groups. Importantly, patients who developed subcutaneous emphysema had significantly lower baseline FEV1 values, regardless of suction level. COPD was identified as a significant predictor of longer drainage duration, longer hospital stay, and higher complication rates.

Conclusion: Although suction level did not significantly influence postoperative recovery, the higher incidence of subcutaneous emphysema in the low suction group warrants further investigation. The presence of COPD and impaired baseline lung function should be considered when selecting suction levels after VATS lobectomy.