[Chest drainage--physiological and pathophysiological aspects and indications].

Introduction: Interventions in the chest region still remain a source of concern for the medical community. Surgeons in particular, however, should be well familiar with this technique as it is them who perform the majority of these drainages.

Objective: The aim of the article is to give an outline of the physiology and pathophysiology of respiration in relation to the chest drainage indication, and to discuss the different indications for this type of drainage.

Conclusion: Chest drainage is, in case of correct indication and performance, a safe method of therapy for a number of pleural pathologies. It is necessary to consider its employment on a case-by-case basis because it is always essential to assess its benefits versus risks.