ELI5- How do surgeons sew up after an operation without leaving air in the body?
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Cardiac surgeon here. Before closing the sternal wound we install 2-4 draining tubes and connect them to vacuum system. At least 2 are used for draining blood from pericardial cavity and another 2 for draining blood AND air, if pleural cavities were opened. They are removed in 1-2 days after surgery
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