What is the minimum size for a catheter used in treating pneumothorax?

The minimum size for a catheter used in treating pneumothorax is a 14-gauge catheter. This size is critical because it strikes a balance between providing adequate drainage of air from the pleural space and maintaining manageable insertion ease. A 14-gauge catheter is large enough to allow for the rapid removal of air, which is essential in cases of pneumothorax where quick relief is needed to prevent respiratory distress or potential complications. Larger catheters, while they might also be effective in drainage, may increase the risk of additional trauma to the surrounding tissue during insertion. Therefore, a 14-gauge catheter is widely regarded as the standard minimum size in clinical practice for this purpose, ensuring both efficiency in treatment and safety for the patient.