Generally, drains should be removed once the drainage has stopped or becomes less than about 25 ml/day. Drains can be 'shortened' by withdrawing them gradually (typically by 2 cm per day) and so, in theory, allowing the site to heal gradually.

When should percutaneous drain be removed?

Call us when the drainage output is less than about 10 ml a day for 2 to 3 days in a row. You may be ready for the drain to be removed. Many drains must be flushed daily to keep them from clogging. Your doctor will tell you if your drain needs to be flushed and how often.

How will you know when a surgical drain tube can be removed?

In general, you do this when: You see a clot in the tube that prevents fluid from draining. The clot may look like a dark, stringy lining. You see fluid leaking around the tube where it goes into the skin.