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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

venous cannulation

The surgical placement of cannulas in venous structures to drain blood for cardiopulmonary bypass.

Full Definition

Venous cannulation is the process of placing large-bore cannulas in the venous system to establish venous drainage for cardiopulmonary bypass. This typically involves cannulation of the right atrium, superior vena cava, and/or inferior vena cava depending on the surgical procedure. Proper venous drainage is essential for adequate venous return to the bypass circuit and complete decompression of the heart. The technique and location of venous cannulation vary based on the specific cardiac procedure and surgeon preference.

Usage

Usage note: Often specified as bicaval, single, or right atrial cannulation.

In Context

  • "Bicaval venous cannulation was performed for complete venous isolation." — operative report
  • "Single right atrial venous cannulation provided adequate drainage for the procedure." — surgical note

Also known as

venous drainage venous access

Contrasted with

venous decannulation

Don't confuse with

arterial cannulation aortic cannulation

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