What is the purpose of imaging verification of chest-tube placement?

• A. To check lung expansion only.
• B. To confirm correct placement in pleural space and rule out misplacement that could prevent drainage or cause injury.
• C. To measure drainage rate.
• D. To assess heart function.

Answer: (B)

Imaging verification after placing a chest tube is done to confirm the tube actually sits in the pleural space where it needs to drain air or fluid, and to identify any misplacement that could either prevent drainage or cause injury. If the tube is not properly positioned—such as being too high or too far medially, or ending up in the lung tissue, mediastinum, or abdomen—the drainage may be ineffective and there’s a risk of harming nearby structures. A follow-up chest radiograph (often with the tube’s tip visible) helps confirm correct depth and direction, and checks for complications like a lingering pneumothorax or tube dislodgement or kinking. This purpose is distinct from measuring drainage rate or assessing heart function, which are not the goals of imaging verification.