Thoroactomy question

[LonerIQ]

can a thoracotomy incision on the ribs be done to get fluid out of lungs instead of using a chest tube??

[Caspiana]

No because fluid must be drained therefore the tube is necessary. A thoracotomy is performed for diagnosis or treatment of a disease for instance a biopsy or to remove tissue as needed.

[Biker88]

the tube is needed to keep the incision open and allow the drain to work.

[Lutontown]

No. Incision between the ribs is, with tube, to get fluid from between the chest wall and the lungs. I would guess fluid inside the lungs would be drawn by a tube through the nose or mouth, down the bronchi. Look it up on line.