Which findings support chest tube removal?

• A. No air leak
• B. All of the above
• C. Radiographic lung re-expansion
• D. Drainage <100–150 mL over 24 hours

Answer: (B)

Removing a chest tube is safest when the pleural space is not actively dealing with air or fluid and the lung has regained full expansion. The absence of an air leak means there’s no ongoing passage of air into the pleural space that could cause a new collapse once the tube is out. Radiographic lung re-expansion confirms the lung has re-expanded and there’s no residual pneumothorax to worry about. A low drainage amount over 24 hours shows the pleural space isn’t still producing significant fluid, reducing the risk of reaccumulation after removal. When all three are present, the conditions are favorable for chest tube removal, with the lowest chance of recurrence or complication.