Suction (medicine)

Suction (pronounced: /ˈsʌkʃən/) in the field of medicine refers to the process or action of removing fluid or other substances from the body using a vacuum or negative pressure.

Etymology

The term 'suction' originates from the Latin word 'suctio', which means 'to suck'.

Procedure

In medical procedures, suction is often used to clear the airway of blood, saliva, vomit, or other secretions so that a patient may breathe. Suctioning can prevent pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. It is also used in surgery to remove blood from areas being operated on to allow surgeons a clear view of the area.

Types of Suction

There are two main types of suction in medicine: oropharyngeal suction and nasopharyngeal suction. Oropharyngeal suction is used when the patient can cough effectively, but is unable to clear secretions by expectorating. Nasopharyngeal suction is used when the patient is unable to cough effectively enough to clear the airway.

Related Terms

Aspiration (medicine): The process of removing fluids or gases from the body using suction.
Cannula: A tube that can be inserted into the body, often for the delivery or removal of fluid.
Endotracheal tube: A flexible plastic tube that is put into the mouth and then down into the trachea (windpipe).
Tracheostomy: A surgical procedure which consists of making an incision on the anterior aspect of the neck and opening a direct airway through an incision in the trachea.