A Practical Approach for Drain Fluid Analysis Following Genitourinary Surgery

Purpose

Drain evaluation and management is an essential skill for practicing surgeons. There are a multitude of laboratory analyses that may assist in the elucidation of a drain fluid source. Our goal is to review the current biochemical analyses of drain fluid available in an effort to guide perioperative management.

Materials and methods

A PubMed search of all available English language literature for drain fluid analysis following urologic and general surgeries was conducted. Further sources were identified in the reference lists of identified articles. All relevant articles published were reviewed and used to delineate the appropriate drain fluid tests that could be ordered. The interpretation of these test results was also discussed. The data was then presented in a series of patient scenarios that exemplify postoperative complications seen.

Results

Biochemical analysis of drain fluid can be used to assist in the diagnosis of the postoperative urologic tract, intestinal, hepatopancreaticobiliary, and infectious complications. Drain fluid studies including creatinine, urea, triglyceride, cell count, protein, pH, specific gravity, gram stain, culture, lactate dehydrogenase, amylase, lipase, albumin, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase have been reviewed accordingly.

Conclusions

Commonly available laboratory analyses may assist the surgeon in perioperative drain management. Our review summarizes these studies through case examples. Understanding the applicability of these studies is essential to improve surgical practice.

Synopsis

A review of drain fluid evaluation and management in genitourinary procedures as depicted in a case-by-case fashion. This article demonstrates the indications and utilities of drain fluid studies in postoperative patients to best assist and inform surgical practice.