Saugkanülen

Saugkanülen are suction cannulas used in medical settings to evacuate fluids, secretions, or gases from a body cavity or operative field. The term comes from the German words Saug (suction) and Kanüle (cannula). They are versatile instruments that can be rigid or flexible and are designed to be connected to a suction source to generate controlled negative pressure.

Designs vary by application. Common forms include flexible plastic or silicone catheters, rigid metal cannulas, and fenestrated variants with side holes near the tip to promote drainage while reducing tissue injury. Diameters are expressed in French units, and tips may be smooth or beveled depending on use.

Applications span many medical disciplines. They are used to clear airway secretions during bronchoscopy and anesthesia, to suction nasal or throat secretions, to drain wounds or surgical sites, and to remove fluids in thoracic, abdominal, or pleural drainage procedures. Dental and ENT procedures also employ small-diameter cannulas for debris removal.

Operation and safety: cannulas are typically sterile and intended for single use, though some are reusable after proper sterilization. They connect to regulated suction devices, with negative-pressure settings adjusted to procedure, patient safety, and tissue tolerance. Clinicians monitor for mucosal injury, airway trauma, or occlusion by kinking or clotting.

Regulations and standards govern medical suction devices, including labeling, sterility, and compatibility with suction systems. Appropriate disposal of used cannulas is essential. See also suction catheter and drainage catheter.