Abstract: A thoracostomy device that may be used for the placement of a chest tube is disclosed. The thoracostomy device is adapted to be extended into an incision in a patient, and comprises: (a) a handle portion; (b) an insertion portion extending from the handle portion, and having a linear portion and a curved terminal portion, the insertion portion having opposed substantially continuous first inner and second outer lateral surfaces, the device defining a central axis extending therethrough; and (c) a continuous channel extending through the handle and insertion portions and open to the first inner lateral surface, the channel having a medial axis offset from and parallel to the central axis, the channel adapted to guide a tube along the central axis while being adapted to allow a tube to be removed laterally of the channel. The present invention also includes a method of preparing a chest tube for insertion and for inserting a chest tube such as through the use any of the devices of the present invention.