Intermediate
Technical
IVT
cardiotomy sucker
Surgical instrument that removes blood and debris from the operative field while returning blood to the CPB circuit.
Full Definition
A specialized suction device used during cardiac surgery that simultaneously removes blood, air, and debris from the surgical field while collecting the aspirated blood for processing and return to the patient via the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. The device helps maintain a clear operative field for precise surgical work while minimizing blood loss. Modern cardiotomy suckers incorporate filters to remove particulate matter and air bubbles before blood is returned to the venous reservoir of the heart-lung machine.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from regular surgical suction which discards aspirated blood.
In Context
- "The cardiotomy sucker was used to maintain a bloodless field during valve repair." — operative note
- "Excessive use of the cardiotomy sucker may cause hemolysis of red blood cells." — perfusion protocol
Also known as
cardiac sucker
vent sucker
Don't confuse with
regular suction
cell saver