Automatic Control of the Coronary Suction Pump

___________ _ (J. Extra-Corpor. Tech. 18[4) p.219-220 Winter 1986) A coronary suction device is described which affords the surgeon direct control of blood aspiration. The device described is nondisposable and can be made up from extra level sensors. With use of the device, there was a reduction in the time that coronary sucker pumps were used, hence reducing the aspiration of air. As the coronary sucker pump causes most trauma to blood, any reduction in suction time will reduce red cell damage. Introduction ___________ _ Having changed from bubble to membrane oxygenators, we had at our disposal a number of redundant level sensors. These devices, with some modification, make an ideal foot switch for use by the surgeon when coronary suction is required. While the perfusionist normally controls the duration and quantity of suction, it is not always possible to have direct vision of the operating field. This results in the coronary pump running for longer than required. With the assistant surgeon in control, coronary suction is lessened and resultant blood trauma is reduced. Materials and Methods _______ _ The Cobe Stockert• low level sensor for the Cobe Optitlo II consists of two parts, the control (Figure I) Direct communications to: Martin Hargrove, Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit, Cork Regional Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Eire Volume 18, Number 4, Winter 1986 Cable to pump