Early removal of chest tubes after minor lung surgeries
Official title: Early Postoperative Day 0 Chest Tube Removal After Thoracoscopic Minor Surgeries. A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
Run by Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern · NCT04670523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if taking out chest tubes on the same day as minor lung surgeries can help patients recover better and avoid complications.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 304 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bern) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 6, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04670523 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults undergoing thoracoscopic extra-anatomical lung resections or pleural biopsies who are in good health and can tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with anatomical resections, empyema, pleural effusion, or those who are pregnant, children, or adolescents may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the safety of removing chest tubes on the same day as minor thoracic surgeries, specifically focusing on patients undergoing thoracoscopic procedures. The research aims to redefine the criteria for early chest tube removal by utilizing advanced digital air flow measurements and assessing postoperative recovery. By promoting early mobilization and adherence to enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications associated with prolonged chest tube placement.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance recovery, reduce postoperative complications, and improve the quality of life for patients undergoing thoracic surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with early chest tube removal in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Thoracoscopic extra-anatomical lung resection (surgical lung biopsy) 2. Thoracoscopic pleural biopsy 3. Signed consent 4. Age of majority Exclusion Criteria: 1. Anatomical resection 2. Empyema 3. Pleural effusion 4. Pleurodesis 5. Vulnerable persons (Pregnant women, Children and adolescents)
Where it's running
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University Hospital of Bern, Inselspital
Bern, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Patrick Dorn, PD
- Email: patrick.dorn@insel.ch
- Phone: 0041 31 632 37 45
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.