I construct an inexpensive wound suction drain by using a butterfly catheter and a Vacutainer tube (Becton, Dickinson, and Company). Simply remove the hub from the catheter, create several small fenestrations in the tubing, and close the wound over the tubing with the needle outside the dermis. After closing the wound, use the Vacutainer tube to collect fluid. Change as needed. Most drains can be removed after one to three days.

Dr. Terry Dew, MS, DACVS
Knoxville, Ark.