Pleural effusion drainage is a medical procedure used to remove excess fluid that accumulates in the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid buildup can cause difficulty in breathing and discomfort. The procedure typically involves inserting a thin tube, called a chest tube or thoracostomy, into the chest cavity to drain the fluid. The drainage can be performed using local anesthesia and may be guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound to ensure accurate placement. After the fluid is removed, it is often sent for analysis to determine the cause of the effusion, which can help guide further treatment.