Thopaz+ portable digital system for managing chest drains

The case for adopting Thopaz+ for managing chest drains is supported by the evidence. Thopaz+ can reduce drainage time and length of stay in hospital, and improves safety for people with chest drains. Its use may also improve clinical decision making through continuous, objective monitoring of air leaks and fluid loss.

Thopaz+ should be considered for people who need chest drainage after pulmonary resection or because of a pneumothorax. The system can increase patient mobility because it is portable. Staff find it more convenient and easier to use than conventional chest drains.

Cost modelling (see section 4 of the guidance) indicates that Thopaz+ is cost saving compared with conventional chest drains in people after pulmonary resection. The estimated saving is £111 per patient per hospital stay, with savings mainly achieved through reduced length of stay. NICE's resource impact assessment shows that, at a national level, adopting Thopaz+ is expected to save around £8.5 million per year in England.