Glossary
Drain (surgical drainage tube)
Quick answer
A surgical drain is a thin plastic tube placed in the knee at the end of some operations to carry away blood and fluid into a small collection bottle. It is now used selectively rather than routinely, notes Dr. Pablo Gelber, knee surgeon at Aman Hospital in Doha, and usually comes out within a day or two.
What it is
The drain is a soft perforated tube that lies inside the joint or under the skin and exits through a tiny separate hole. It connects to a bottle or bag, sometimes with gentle suction, so that blood that would otherwise collect in the knee can escape.
It is held in place by a stitch and covered by the dressing.
Why it matters for patients
In the past drains were used after most knee replacements. Studies have shown that, for many routine procedures, they do not clearly reduce complications and may slightly increase blood loss, so many surgeons now use them only when bleeding is expected to be higher, such as in revision surgery, osteotomy or patients on certain blood thinners.
Medicines that reduce bleeding during surgery have also lessened the need for drains.
Removal
A drain is usually removed after 24 to 48 hours, once output has fallen. Removal takes seconds: the stitch is cut and the tube slid out, which feels like a brief odd pulling. A small dressing covers the hole, which normally seals within a day or two.
Frequently asked questions
Does having a drain mean something went wrong?
No. A drain is a planned precaution in certain operations and does not indicate a problem.
Can I walk with the drain in?
Yes, in most cases. The nurses help you carry or secure the bottle so you can start walking and exercises.
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