A urinary tract infection (UTI) is not the only medical problem that uses catheter system, there are other two common body abnormalities that demand this drainage system too, in helping to manage body fluid build up. These conditions are pleural effusions, which is the build up of water in the lungs and malignant ascites that refers to the accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity. Unlike pleural effusions and malignant ascites, bladder infections are a very common condition affecting the elderly, often demanding the use of disposable underpads and diapers for adults.
Generally, the three fluid related conditions share one thing in common, that is the use of the pleurx catheter that has helped many patients take control of their conditions. In fact, it is estimated that over 300,000 patients have used this system since 1997, maybe steered by the fact that the system allows you to drain fluid effectively and comfortably, at your own schedule.
Pleurx drainage kit is a fluid drainage system that consists of vacuum bottles and an indwelling catheter to help patients empty fluid safely, comfortably and in the most effective way possible. Since the drainage system can be used at home, it has greatly reduced your visits to the hospital for paracentesis or thoracentesis.
The pleurx procedure of draining fluid is simple considering you have to be taught by your doctor, on how to handle the PleurX drainage bottles. But basically, all you have to do is to connect the tip of the catheter to the drainage line. Then, the vacuum bottle will automatically suck and drain out the fluid, which passes through the catheter.
At the surface of the abdomen or chest cavity is a PleurX catheter extension that must be covered with a protective dressing anytime it’s not in use. This is very important as it keeps the area off infection and limits visibility from other people. In addition, doctors advise on the proper use of the catheter and immediate removal of the system when they no longer serve any purpose.
However, while you are considering several treatment options for malignant ascites or pleural effusions, it’s important you consult with your doctor to find out if this system is appropriate for you. A procedure that that can also be done on outpatients. When draining fluid from the abdomen, you are limited to 2,000 mL per drainage. This is to avoid issues such as hypotension, ascites leakage, protein depletion among others potential complications. On the other hand, fluid drainage from your chest is limited to 1,000 mL as it also attracts similar complications as those experienced in the abdomen including pneumothorax, circulatory collapse and re-expansion pulmonary edema. Finally, the new features being added in pleurX catheter are designed to make it easier and safe to use for clinicians and patients.