NCT06411431 · Swedish Medical Center
Early Chest Tube Removal After Surgery for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A Randomized Controlled Trial
What this study is about
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with blebectomy/wedge resection plus pleurodesis is the the usual treatment for recurrent primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) or, in certain instances, after the first episode. The chest tube from surgery is typically kept to suction until post-operative day (POD) 2 to allow for scarring of the lung to the chest to prevent recurrence.
View original scientific description
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with blebectomy/wedge resection plus pleurodesis is the standard of care for recurrent primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) or, in certain instances, after the first episode. The chest tube from surgery is typically kept to suction until post-operative day (POD) 2 to allow for scarring of the lung to the chest to prevent recurrence. However, the scarring process takes place over a period of weeks and is there no data to support POD#2 as the best time to remove the chest tube. Also, shorter chest tube duration can lower length of stay, patient discomfort, and hospital cost. The goal of this randomized study is to determine if early removal (POD#1) of chest tube after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with blebectomy/wedge resection plus chemical pleurodesis for primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP): * has no worse 2-year recurrence rate compared to standard removal (POD#2) * will lower length of stay compared to standard removal * will result in less complications or re-interventions compared to standard removal Participants will be asked to join prior to surgery. Following standard-of-care surgery, participants will be screened for randomization. If still eligible, participants will be randomized for early chest tube removal or standard removal. Early Removal will happen within 24 hours after surgery, with Standard Removal happening day 2 after surgery.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Early Chest Tube Removal
Subjects within the "Early Removal" group will have their chest tube removed if the following criteria are met on the morning of POD#1: * ≤1 cm of apical pleural separation and no other areas of pleural separation * No air leak * No bloody output or concern for bleeding * \< 400cc of drainage
PROCEDURE
Standard Chest Tube Removal
Subjects within the "Standard Removal" group will have their chest tube removal on POD#2 if the following criteria are met on the morning of POD#1: * ≤1 cm of apical pleural separation and no other areas of pleural separation * No air leak * No bloody output or concern for bleeding * \< 400cc of drainage
DEVICE
Apical Chest Tube
A single apical chest tube will be placed and connected to a suction device at least -20 mmHg suction.
Primary outcome measures
Recurrence of Pneumothorax
Time frame: 2 years from surgery
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient undergoing video assisted thoracoscopic surgery with blebectomy/wedge resection and chemical pleurodesis for primary spontaneous pneumothorax
- Adult patients (\> 18 years)
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects with history of chest radiation or prior ipsilateral chest surgery
- Tuberculosis or other infectious etiology
- Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (COPD, cancer, cystic fibrosis, connective tissue disease, sarcoidosis, catamenial, etc.)
- Pneumothorax due to trauma
- Hemothorax or hydropneumothorax
- Immunocompromised subjects: neutropenic, leukopenia, or subjects taking immunosuppressive medication such as chemotherapy, transplant medications, steroid (≥5 mg of prednisone or equivalent), etc.
- Interstitial lung disease
- Children (\<18)
- Pregnant women
- Adults unable to consent for themselves
Where
- Seattle, Washington
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 16, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations