Manage fluid buildup in the comfort of your home
Doctors recommend the PleurX Drainage catheter System for the following conditions:
Pleural effusion – fluid buildup around your lungs, which can make breathing more difficult.
Malignant ascites – fluid buildup in your abdomen, which causes abdominal pressure and discomfort.
Frequent fluid buildup may mean a visit to your doctor’s office or hospital. Too many times that procedure can become an emergency.
The PleurX Drainage System lets you drain fluid in the comfort of your home and on your own schedule – so you can manage fluid buildup before it becomes uncomfortable. For most patients drainage takes only 5 to 15 minutes.
The PleurX Drainage System is a safe, clinically proven option that’s provided relief to over 100,000 patients since 1997.
A simple solution for managing fluid buildup
The PleurX Drainage System includes a small drainage tube (catheter) and active vacuum containers to collect fluid. The drainage tube may be inserted as a simple outpatient procedure, either in your chest (for pleural effusions) or into your abdomen (for malignant ascites).
The end of the drainage tube stays outside your body and is hidden under an adhesive dressing when it’s not in use. Whenever you need to drain fluid, simply connect the end of the drainage tube to the drainage line connected to the collection bottle.
A. The protective dressing is virtually undetectable under clothing. Apply a new dressing after each use to prevent leaks and to protect the area when bathing
B. The end of the drainage tube stays outside your body and is covered by a thin protective dressing when not in use
*Follow these four simple steps
1. Prepare
Before you start be sure to thoroughly wash your hands to prevent infection
2. Connect
Connect the drainage line to the drainage tube. lt simply clicks in place
3. Drain
When you break the seal on the collection bottle, the vacuum will drain the fluid automatically. When drainage stops, disconnect the drainage line
4. Dressing
After each draining, apply a new adhesive dressing to cover the drainage tube
How often should I drain the fluid from my chest or abdomen?
You should drain fluid as directed by your doctor, usually every one to two days. Consult your doctor before changing the frequency of your drainage.
What if I still feel short of breath or experience discomfort after I finish draining?
Notify your doctor if you continue to feel short of breath or experience discomfort. Do not drain more than 1,000 mL of fluid from your chest or 2,000 mL of fluid from your abdomen at any one time.
When will I know the catheter can be removed?
When you try to drain fluid three times in a row and each time less than 50 mL drains into the bottle, you should see your doctor to find out if the catheter can be removed or if it needs to be replaced (see next question)
What does it mean if the volume of my drainage is smaller or if I do not drain any fluid?
if the fluid goes away suddenly or if the amount of drainage gradually declines, it is possible that the catheter may be clogged. Squeeze the catheter and the drainage line gently if the drainage does not begin, follow the instructions for changing to another bottle. If the drainage does not start when you use a second bottle, call your doctor.
lf the amount of fluid gradually declines, the fluid may be drying up and it may be time for the catheter to be removed. Refer to the previous question, “When will I know that the catheter can be removed?”
How long will the catheter be in my chest or abdomen?
The catheter will be in until fluid stops draining. The amount of time will vary from patient to patient. Fluid buildup is not likely to stop in the abdomen, but may stop in the chest. The catheter may remain in place as long as you need it
What should I do if the color of the fluid changes from the usual color?
Any change in the appearance of the fluid should be reported to your doctor.
Can I take a shower or bath with the catheter in place?
Shower: You can take a shower or sponge bath if a self-adhesive dressing like the one in the Procedure Pack is securely attached to your skin The self-adhesive dressing is designed to keep fluid out. Be sure the dressing is completely and securely attached and the catheter and gauze pads are all contained underneath it. lf the gauze becomes wet when showering, remove the dressing immediately, clean and dry the area and apply a new dressing as instructed in the Directions for Use that came with the PleurX drainage kit
Bath: Do not allow the catheter to soak underwater in a tub, bath, pool, etc.
What happens if the PleurX catheter is accidentally pulled out?
ln the unlikely event the catheter is pulled out or the cuff becomes exposed, cover the exit site with a sterile dressing and seek immediate medical attention. The PleurX catheter has a polyester cuff that is normally under the skin where the catheter is inserted. This cuff and the sutures located where the catheter exits your body help keep the catheter in place
How will I know if my catheter is infected?
You should contact your doctor immediately if you believe your catheter is infected Pain, redness (erythema), warmth to touch, swelling (edema), fever or fluid from around the catheter site may indicate your catheter is infected. Some discomfort and redness after insertion is expected but should not persist or worsen.