Less is more: the benefits of low suction for digital pleural drainage devices after pulmonary resection

The cost of healthcare is increasing and the resources available are limited. Optimization and efficiency have become important for reduction of hospital length of stay for surgical patients and subsequent costs. This financial pressure has stimulated the development of enhanced recovery pathways following thoracic surgery, aimed at early patient discharge and reduction in post-operative complications (1). The decision of the ideal time for pleural drain removal remains a significant determinant of patient length of stay in hospital following pulmonary resection (2).