Discharged With Indwelling Chest Tube and Valve

A Randomized Study Evaluating Patients Discharged With Indwelling Chest Tube and Valve

This study is a multicenter, randomized trial for the treatment of subjects discharging from the hospital with a chest tube and valve in place. Subjects will be randomized to receive oral antibiotics and close monitoring, defined as twice weekly telephone calls by a member of the care team, of their chest tube and valve or standard of care, defined as no calls from the care team but waiting for the subject to contact the care team when the air leak has stopped.

This study is a multicenter, randomized trial for the treatment of subjects discharging from the hospital with a chest tube and valve in place. Subjects will be screened prior to discharging from the hospital and interested qualified subjects will be consented and offered participation in this trial. Once consent has been obtained the subject will be randomized to receive oral antibiotics and close monitoring, defined as twice weekly telephone calls by a member of the care team, of their chest tube and valve or standard of care, defined as no calls from the care team but waiting for the subject to contact the care team when the air leak has stopped. The subject will be followed until they have their chest tube removed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥ 18 years of age
• Male and Female
• Consultation with a thoracic surgeon
• Discharge from the hospital with a chest tube and valve in place
• Subject is able to understand the study procedures and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Allergy to Keflex and Clindamycin
• Special consideration should be taken in enrolling subjects with preexisting conditions that can be exacerbated by antibiotic use but are allowed at the discretion of the treating physician.