Basically, surgical drains are tubes which are placed close to the incision after a surgical operation. These drains are intended to remove blood, pus or other fluid, in order to prevent it from accumulating in the body. The drainage system inserted is usually based on the type of surgery, needs of the patient, type of the wound, expected drainage as well as surgeon preference. However, surgical drain management is essential in order to prevent infections.

For many years, drains have been used in different operations with a good intention. Generally, the intention is to drain or decompress either fluid or air, out of the surgical area. These drains therefore help prevent accumulation of fluid, dead space or air as well as to characterize fluid, for instance, early detection of anastomotic leakage.

There are different kinds of surgical drains. The first is either open drains or closed drains. Open drains are made up of corrugated rubber or plastic sheets and drains into a gauze pad or a stoma bag. These open drains add to the likelihood contracting an infection. Conversely, closed drains consist of tubes that empty to a bag or a bottle. Examples of such drains include chest, abdominal and orthopedic drains. Closed drains cut down the likelihood of contracting infections.

Another type of surgical drain is the active and passive drains. The active drains are usually maintained through a suction that could either be high or low pressure. The passive drains do not have suction and normally works according to the pressure difference that exist between the exterior and the body cavities.

The drains can also be silastic or rubber drains. The silastic drains induces minimal tissue reaction since they are relatively inert. However, rubber drains can stimulate intense tissue reaction and in some cases, they can allow tracts to form.

Management of drains is usually governed by the purpose as well as the location of the drain. Therefore, preferences and instructions of the surgeon should be followed. The drain must remain secured since dislodgment can occur when transferring the patient. Such dislodgement may increase irritation and risk of infection. At the same time, changes in volume and the character of the fluid should be monitored. This is in order to identify arising complications that can result in leaking blood or fluid, especially pancreatic or bile secretions. Also, fluid loss should be measured to help in the intravenous replacement of lost fluids.

The drains should be removed after the drainage goes below 25 ml/day or has stopped. The drains can also be shortened by removing them gradually allowing gradual healing of the site. Some discomfort may be felt when the drains are pulled out raising the need for pain relief before they are removed.

Once the drains have been removed, place a dry dressing on the site. Some drainage commonly occurs from the site and this may happen until the wound has healed. Drains left for a prolonged period may become difficult to remove while early removal lowers the likelihood of complications more so infections.