Abstract: A thoracic drainage device including a fluid collection chamber for receiving drainage fluid from the pleural cavity of a patient is provided with a strap capable of being used to conveniently support the drainage device in various ways. The upper and lower ends of the drainage device are provided with openings for receiving the strap in each of a plurality of different device supporting conditions. The strap can be adjusted so as to be useable as a shoulder strap, a hand-held strap, a strap for hanging the drainage device from a bed rail or other support, or in other arrangements. The strap can be arranged to provide a relatively short support without having unused portions dangling from the device.

Abstract: A thoracic drainage device including a rigid container having a drainage collection chamber and a liquid seal chamber centered above the collection chamber. A tube adapted for connection with the pleural cavity of a patient is connected to the lid of the device and extends into the liquid seal chamber to a point below the level of an initial amount of liquid provided therein. The liquid seal chamber has a relatively small height relative to its length and width so that it contains a relatively large amount of liquid of shallow depth. The seal chamber has an upper wall with a central opening for the flow of liquid through the opening and into the collection chamber, the upper wall preventing or reducing the flow of liquid out of the liqud seal chamber due to an inadvertent tipping of the device or sloshing during movement from one location to another.

Abstract: A thoracic drainage device including a container for receiving drainage fluid, and a drainage tube for connecting the pleural cavity of a patient to be drained to the container, the outlet end of the tube being disposed below the level of liquid in the container to provide a liquid seal. The container includes a gas outlet for connection with the atmosphere or to a source of vacuum, and an annular defoaming member in close surrounding relation with the drainage tube and in the flow path of gas flowing from the drainage tube to the gas outlet for minimizing foam.