Penrose drain

Penrose drain is a type of drain used in surgery to remove fluids from a wound site. Named after its inventor, American surgeon Charles Bingham Penrose, it is a soft, flat, latex tube.

History

The Penrose drain was invented by Charles Bingham Penrose, an American surgeon, in the early 20th century. It was designed to provide a simple and effective method of draining fluids from surgical wounds.

Design

The Penrose drain is made from a soft, flat, latex tube. It is typically a few inches long and less than an inch wide. The drain is flexible, allowing it to conform to the contours of the body. One end of the drain is placed inside the wound, while the other end is left outside the body to allow fluids to drain out.

Use

The Penrose drain is used in a variety of surgical procedures to remove excess fluids from the wound site. This helps to reduce swelling and promote healing. The drain is typically left in place for a few days to a week, depending on the amount of fluid that needs to be drained.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of the Penrose drain is its simplicity. It is easy to insert and remove, and it effectively drains fluids from the wound. However, it does have some disadvantages. The drain can become clogged, requiring it to be replaced. It can also cause discomfort to the patient, and there is a risk of infection if the drain is not properly cared for.

See also

• Surgery
• Drainage
• Charles Bingham Penrose

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