Final answer:
The number and location of chest tubes for post-op chest surgery varies, but commonly one or two tubes are placed in the pleural space. The tubes are inserted in the 5th or 6th intercostal space, either along the mid-axillary line or the anterior axillary line.
Step-by-step explanation:
After post-op chest surgery, the number and location of chest tubes will depend on the specific case and the surgeon's preference. Chest tubes are commonly inserted to drain fluid, blood, or air from the chest cavity and help reestablish negative pressure. In most cases, one or two chest tubes are placed in the pleural space, which is the area between the lungs and the chest wall. The chest tubes are usually inserted in the 5th or 6th intercostal space, either along the mid-axillary line or the anterior axillary line. These locations provide access to the pleural space while avoiding major blood vessels and organs. The tubes are connected to a drainage system that collects the fluid or air.