Tube thoracostomy is typically placed at which location?

Tube thoracostomy is typically placed at which location?

• A. Between 2nd and 3rd rib at the midclavicular line
• B. Between 4th and 5th rib at the midaxillary line
• C. Between 6th and 7th rib at the posterior axillary line
• D. Between 8th and 9th ribs at the midclavicular line

Answer: (B)

Access to the pleural space is best gained in the midaxillary line at the 4th to 5th intercostal space. This location sits in the “safe triangle” for chest tube insertion, allowing a direct path to drain air or fluid while minimizing injury to the lung, heart, or abdominal organs. The tube is placed just above the upper edge of the rib to avoid the intercostal neurovascular bundle that runs along the inferior border of each rib. Higher placements near the midclavicular line risk injury to intrathoracic structures, while lower or more posterior sites can miss the pleural space or endanger abdominal organs.

Access to the pleural space is best gained in the midaxillary line at the 4th to 5th intercostal space. This location sits in the “safe triangle” for chest tube insertion, allowing a direct path to drain air or fluid while minimizing injury to the lung, heart, or abdominal organs. The tube is placed just above the upper edge of the rib to avoid the intercostal neurovascular bundle that runs along the inferior border of each rib. Higher placements near the midclavicular line risk injury to intrathoracic structures, while lower or more posterior sites can miss the pleural space or endanger abdominal organs.