Prior to Procedure

Leading up to the procedure:

• If you have been injured, your doctor may order imaging tests to see the fluid that has collected. Images may be taken with:
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan
• Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.
• Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before surgery.
• Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia —you will be asleep during the procedure

Description of the Procedure

Once you are under anesthesia, your doctor will make an incision in your skin. The end of the drain tubing will be placed into the area where fluid has collected. The other end of the tubing will be connected to the squeeze bulb outside of your body. The doctor will remove the stopper from the bulb, squeeze it to create suction inside the drain system, and replace the stopper. This suction will pull the unwanted fluid out of your body. The doctor will then close the skin over the drain.

If you are having surgery, this JP drain will be inserted at the end of the operation.

Immediately After Procedure

If you are staying in the hospital, the nurses will care for and empty your drain.

How Long Will It Take?

15-20 minutes to place the JP drain

How Much Will It Hurt?

You may have mild to moderate pain where the JP drain is placed. Your doctor will recommend or prescribe medication to help with the pain.

Average Hospital Stay

This procedure is done in a hospital setting. The length of stay depends on the type of surgery you are having. You may be able to go home the same day if the surgery is minor.

Post-procedure Care

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

• Learn how to empty and care for the drain at home.
• Ask your doctor if you can walk around with the JP drain.
• Avoid bumping the drain.
• Sleep on the side opposite of the drain. This will help you to avoid blocking the tubing or pulling it out of the suction bulb.
• Ask your doctor about when it is safe to shower, bathe, or soak in water.
• Ask your doctor what problems to watch for and when you should return for a follow-up appointment.

Removal of a drain depends on how fast you heal from the surgery or injury. Your doctor may remove the drain when there is less than 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 milliliters) of fluid per day being drained. If you have more than one drain, they may not be removed at the same time.