Medical suction device: what it is, types, use

Surgical suction is equipment that removes fluids from the cavities of the body. Such cleaning is an important part of surgical interventions of other medical procedures. From the quality of the work of this device often depends on the life of a person. Let's consider how the aspirator is arranged, and the ways of its use.

What is a surgical aspirator

Although the design of aspirators can vary slightly, the standard model consists of such parts:

• An electric compressor that creates low pressure and thrust.
• Jars into which the liquid is drawn.
• Tubes with tips.

The aspirators have different equipment. It is good if the equipment has such additional elements:

• A control pedal that activates the operation of the apparatus. This speeds up the process of activation, and there is no need to touch the device with your hands.
• A filter that retains bacteria and fungi, which protects the patient from infection. It also serves as protection for the health care provider.
• The rechargeable battery makes the aspirator autonomous.
• An enclosure that suppresses vibration and noise.

Types of aspirators

Surgical suction devices come in two types in terms of mobility:

• Portable units can be carried from department to department or to the surgical site.
• Stationary aspirators are installed in operating rooms.

Aspirators differ by type of power supply:

• Mechanical surgical suction devices operate without electricity, but they have low power. They can remove small amounts of biological fluids.
• Electric aspirators are significantly more powerful. They are equipped with additional functions and intelligent control.

The main differences of surgical suction devices in their functionality and capabilities:

• The power of the equipment determines how quickly the fluid will be removed from the human body cavities. The best aspirator models are equipped with power adjustment. This allows you to adapt the device to specific tasks.
• The power consumption of portable surgical suction devices is within 80 watts. They use energy sparingly. Large stationary devices use much more electricity.
• The noise level of aspirators depends on the device of the compressor. If the equipment makes a lot of noise, it distracts the doctor and can negatively affect the psychological state of the patient. A noise level that does not exceed 60 dB is considered acceptable.
• The pressure of most aspirators is 0.8 bar. However, some procedures require a greater force.

The size and weight of aspirators varies depending on the intended use of the equipment. Portable surgical suction units weigh much less than stationary models that are installed in departments.

Application of aspirators

Surgical suction devices are used in various medical spheres:

• Obstetrics and gynecology. Aspirator removes secretions from blood clots formed after childbirth. Sometimes it is used to extract the fetus with a vacuum.
• Surgery. Aspirator removes blood, mucous secretions and other biological fluids from cavities.
• Resuscitation and intensive care. Surgical suction is used to clear excess fluid or vomit from the airways.
• Dentistry. The aspirator removes the formed saliva, so that the patient was more comfortable and there was a drier environment in the area of manipulation.

Surgical aspirators are also used by other medical professionals. Often endoscopists, ENT doctors, pulmonologists have such equipment.