Abdominal drainage: a clinical review.

A review of the indications for, and technique of, abdominal drainage is presented. An analysis is made of the physical characteristics of the commonly used types of drains. Evidence is presented that abdominal drains, although sometimes life-saving, are potentially harmfully and should be used only when a clear indication is present. When drainage is employed, it should be of the most efficient, closed type, and the drain should be removed at the earliest safe time after operation.