Method and appparatus for aspirating secreted fluids from a wound

Abstract

A method and apparatus for aspirating secreted fluids from a wound is disclosed which involves the placement of a drain into a wound via the tissue adjacent the wound. After the wound is closed, a secretion aspiration and collection device, which is connected to the drain via a tube, is placed into operation. The device is designed to have a suction effect controlled between a minimum value and a maximum value according to the quantity of secreted fluid to be aspirated. This is achieved by one or more sensors which control a tube pump. When a second sensor is used, the pump will not be shut off by a passing air bubble in the fluid. A sleeve may also be provided to facilitate introduction of the drain into the wound. Additionally, a needle may be detachably connected to the sleeve to aid the insertion of the sleeve.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.