Guide to Pigtail Drainage Pouch
What is a pigtail drain?
A pigtail drain involves using a thin and flexible tube inserted through a small cut in your skin to effectively drain fluid. The drain is connected to a drainage system such as bottle, pouch or bulb.
Why do I need to pouch the drain?
Switching from a bottle to a drainage pouch can alleviate the inconvenience of carrying the bulky bottle. It also provides a discreet and lightweight alternative.
What are the common drain complications?
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Tube dislodgement
How do I care for my drain?
• Do not tug or pull out the tube
• Change the pouch every 7 - 14 days
• Ensure drain output is emptied when 1/3 full and daily before bedtime
• Ensure anchoring stitch remains intact
How do I change my pouch weekly?
Things you need:
How to change:
1. Make slit cuts to allow fitting of drain. Peel off half of the nonadhesive paper and cut a slit. Stick back to wafer after.
3. Introduce tube into pouch without pulling the drain.
2. Gently remove pouch and discard. Clean drain with Alcohol Swab 70%. Dab dry after.
4. Remove adhesive paper and apply pouch to skin. Smoothen pouch to skin.
When should I return to the Emergency Department?
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever ≥38°C
• Moderate to large amount of blood-stained fluid in pouch
• For dislodgement of anchoring suture, you may walk-in to our General Surgery clinic from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Please bring along an extra drainage pouch.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group in the north of Singapore. It comprises Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital and community extension, Admiralty Medical Centre. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg