Use of the Heimlich Flutter Valve for Chest Drainage in Battle Casualties

In military surgery, the Heimlich flutter valve has the following advantages over underwater drainage that make it a valuable device in forward surgical units: I. The patient is ambulatory very quickly, because the valve functions in any position and the tubing drains into a plastic bag. Thus, the patient can walk while the chest drainage is still functioning and attend his own toilet, etc. Chest X-ray films can be taken in the X-ray department, and the tubing need not be clamped. 2. The technique is easily understood by the staff, and less frequent nursing attention is required. This is a very important point for a tired surgical team. 3. The apparatus is sterile as packaged, and is disposable.