[Continuous thoracic drainage and suction. Comparative study of the performance and price of multiple-use systems (separate bottles) and single-use (compact systems) disposable systems on the market].

A study of 12 pleural drainage systems has been conducted. The system was disposable in 8 instances and allowed multiple use in 4. Each system was analyzed in relation to 15 performance criteria and 15 safety criteria. The cost of use per patient was compared. In conclusion, compact and disposable pleural drainage units can be recommended since they (a) offer superior technical performance, (b) are more reliable, (c) offer increased safety, (d) are easier to monitor, (e) are much safer with respect to cross-infection, (f) are less noisy in some cases, (g) are more useful in apportioning responsibility between surgeons and nursing staff, and (h) are less costly.