The term "perfusion cannula" refers to a device used in medical procedures to deliver fluids, such as medications or nutrients, directly into a patient’s bloodstream. The spelling of this word is /pərˈfjuːʒən kænˈjulə/, with stress on the second syllable of both words. The "perfusion" part comes from the Latin "perfundere," meaning to pour through, while "cannula" is derived from the Italian word for "little pipe." Proper spelling of medical terminology is crucial in ensuring effective communication among healthcare professionals.
A perfusion cannula is a medical device used in the field of cardiovascular surgery and critical care medicine. It is a specialized tube-like instrument designed to facilitate and maintain the flow of blood or other fluids into specific areas of the body during surgical procedures or to provide circulatory support in critically ill patients.
The primar y purpose of a perfusion cannula is to establish a controlled flow of blood by connecting it to an external circulation system, such as a heart-lung machine. These machines temporarily replace the normal functioning of the heart and lungs during open-heart surgery, allowing the surgeon to perform intricate procedures on a still and blood-free surgical field. The cannula is inserted into a blood vessel, typically the aorta or vena cava, to safely redirect the blood flow from the body to the machine and vice versa.
Perfusion cannulas are typically made from biocompatible materials such as medical-grade polymers or metals to minimize the risk of adverse reactions or tissue damage. They are available in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different patient anatomies and surgical requirements.
In addition to cardiovascular surgery, perfusion cannulas also find applications in other fields like organ transplantation and experimental research where precise control of blood or fluid flow is necessary to maintain tissue viability and study physiological responses. Overall, perfusion cannulas play a crucial role in maintaining circulation and ensuring optimal organ perfusion during critical medical procedures.
• A double-barreled c. used for irrigation of a cavity, the wash fluid passing into the cavity through one tube and out through the other.
• A two-way cannula by means of which a liquid can be injected into a cavity through one tube and flow out through the other tube.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "perfusion cannula" comprises two parts: "perfusion" and "cannula".
The term "perfusion" originated from the Latin word "perfusio", which means "to pour over". It was formed by combining the prefix "per", meaning "through", and "fusus", which means "to pour". In the medical context, perfusion refers to the process of supplying an organ or tissue with blood or a fluid containing oxygen and nutrients.
"Cannula" comes from the Latin word "canna", which means "a tube" or "reed". A cannula is a small, thin tube inserted into the body to withdraw or introduce fluids, such as during medical procedures or surgeries.