Abstract: A surgical gravity drain includes biologically inert medical grade silicone rubber extruded to generally parallel longitudinally extending planar surfaces having transversely aligned and longitudinally extending capillary drainage channels. A ribbon of silicone rubber including integrally formed longitudinally extending and laterally spaced ribs defining transversely aligned capillary drainage channels on external ribbon surfaces is disclosed in one embodiment; and a flattened tube of silicone rubber including integrally formed longitudinally extending and laterally spaced ribs defining transversely aligned capillary drainage channels on internal and external tube surfaces is disclosed in a further embodiment. The novel drain of the present invention is substantially clogging-free, collapse-proof, and provides effective long term in situ drainage.

Abstract: A surgical suction drain extruded from biologically inert medical grade silicone rubber includes first and second spaced flanges and a web integrally formed between and abutting the flanges defining first and second longitudinally extending and laterally directed exudate receiving channels. A longitudinally extending lumen is provided in the web that is directly connectable to a vacuum source. A plurality of transversely extending apertures are provided through the flanges each of which defines an exudate receiving passageway in communication with the central lumen, the exterior surfaces of both flanges, and with a corresponding one of the longitudinally extending and laterally directed channels. Tissue standoffs are provided on the flanges. An X-ray opaque strip is co-extruded on one of the flanges. Tabs are insert molded in the channels to provide structural strength for securing the drain to the body.