Which of the following describes a pneumonectomy regarding chest tube placement?

A pneumonectomy involves the surgical removal of an entire lung. After this procedure, there is typically no need for a chest tube to be placed, as the removal of the lung itself eliminates the space that would normally require drainage of air or fluid. In such cases, the pleural space is essentially reduced, as the lung is no longer present, which removes the potential for pleural effusion or pneumothorax that often necessitates a chest tube in other types of thoracic surgeries.

The decision not to place a chest tube is based on the understanding that the pneumonectomy creates a different anatomical situation than other lung surgeries where drainage might be necessary to manage fluid or air accumulation. The absence of a lung means that traditional concerns around maintaining pleural pressure and ensuring lung expansion post-surgery are adjusted accordingly.