A cannula is a hollow tubular instrument with a small and pointed tip, typically made of stainless steel or plastic, used in medical procedures to access and drain fluids from the body or administer medications. It is often connected to a hose or syringe for controlled delivery or extraction of substances.
In medical contexts, a cannula is primarily employed for intravenous (IV) therapy, allowing the introduction of fluids, medications, or blood products directly into a patient's veins. The sharp-ended tip of the cannula is inserted into a vein, and the other end connects to a tubing system or a needleless access device, ensuring a secure and seamless administration process.
Cannulas have various sizes depending on their intended purpose, as smaller ones are used for precise applications such as delivering local anesthesia or extracting blood samples. In contrast, larger diameter cannulas are suitable for surgeries or general fluid drainage.
Beyond medical settings, cannulas can also be found in industrial or engineering fields, where they serve as tubular tools for precise extraction, such as in the extraction of gases from pipelines or as a key component in liquid dispensing systems.
Overall, cannulas serve as essential tools in different fields, enabling safe and effective fluid transfer, extraction, or administration, playing a vital role in modern medical and industrial practices.
