Yankauer suction tips are rigid, bulb-tipped instruments widely used in operating rooms, emergency departments, and procedural suites to evacuate biological fluids and debris from surgical sites or airways. These devices consist of a straight or slightly curved stainless-steel or plastic tube terminating in a smooth, rounded bulb tip, which minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues. Yankauer tips are connected to suction tubing and can be equipped with optional vents or thumb-controlled ports to regulate negative pressure during suctioning. Their simple design and reliable performance make them indispensable for general surgical procedures, oral suctioning, and clearance of oropharyngeal secretions.
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The sizing of Yankauer suction tips is standardized using the French (Fr) gauge system, where 1 Fr corresponds to approximately 0.33 mm in outer diameter. Selecting the appropriate French size is crucial: smaller gauges are preferred for pediatric patients or delicate anatomic regions, whereas larger gauges provide higher flow rates for rapid evacuation of copious fluids. In addition to diameter, clinicians choose between various lengths—typically ranging from 27 cm to 31 cm—and materials (sterile disposable plastic or reusable stainless steel) based on procedural needs and infection-control protocols .
Below is a table summarizing three of the most common Yankauer sizes, their equivalent diameters in millimeters, and typical clinical applications:
French Size (Fr) | Outer Diameter (mm) | Typical Use |
---|---|---|
18 Fr | ~6.0 mm | Pediatric patients, minor oral suctioning |
20 Fr | ~6.7 mm | Standard adult: general surgery, emergency airway clearance |
22 Fr | ~7.3 mm | High-capacity suction: major fluid evacuation |
When selecting a Yankauer suction tip, factors such as patient age, fluid volume, procedural setting, and the need for suction control features should guide choice. Proper training in handling suction instruments and strict adherence to sterilization or single-use guidelines ensure both patient safety and optimal clinical outcomes.
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