Having a drain
Fluid can collect inside the body for lots of reasons:
During an infection
After an operation
Due to some diseases
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Fluid can press on the inside of your body, making you feel ill.
Your doctor needs to take away the fluid so you feel better.
They will do this while you are under general anaesthetic.
They will check the area full of fluid using a scan.
The doctor will put a tube into the area to drain away the fluid.
Ref: 2013ER0030 June2013
Compiled by the Interventional Radiology team in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust
Widgit Symbols © Widgit Software 2002-2012 (www.widgit-health.com)
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Having a drain
They will connect the tube to a bag. The bag will fill with fluid.
You can wake up from the anaesthetic in a bed on the ward.
The nurse will check the bag regularly and empty it if needed.
They will take away the tube when you do not need it anymore.
They will cover up where the tube went in with a dressing.
You should keep the dressing dry for two days.
Please ask us if you have any questions.
Ref: 2013ER0030 June 2013
Compiled by the Interventional Radiology team in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust
Widgit Symbols © Widgit Software 2002-2012 (www.widgit-health.com)
Page 2 of 2