What is the primary reason for placing a high apical chest tube?

Placing a high apical chest tube is primarily aimed at the removal of air from the pleural space. This procedure is typically indicated in cases such as a pneumothorax, where air accumulates in the pleural cavity, potentially leading to lung collapse and impaired respiratory function. The positioning of the chest tube at an apical location allows for effective drainage of air, as air rises to the top of the pleural space due to its lower density compared to fluid. By removing the air, the chest tube helps re-establish negative pressure in the pleural cavity, allowing the lung to expand properly and improving respiratory mechanics.

While blood and fluid removal are important in specific clinical scenarios, the positioning of the chest tube at a high apical site is specifically chosen for air evacuation. Monitoring lung function is crucial in the management of respiratory conditions but is not the primary purpose of placing a chest tube.