Some time ago, because of occasional inadvertent interruption of pleural suction after pulmonary resection, it was decided to construct an apparatus with an alarm system that would instantly indicate a drop in pressure. Since the first model was produced about 18 months ago it has gradually been modified and improved. Moreover, new uses have been discovered. It is now employed not only in chest surgery but also for gastrointestinal suction. Thus, it has been possible to combine in a single unit all the common forms of suction apparatus employed in general and thoracic surgery.
DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 is a frontal view of the apparatus, which is small enough to fit under a standard hospital bed. A suction pump, situated on the left, may be omitted where wall suction is available. The mercury manometer, removable wire held by thumb screw, fixed insulated wire, doorbell buzzer, and drainage bottle are visible. Figure