A New Evaluation Q-Factor to Be Calculated for Suction Geometries as a Basis for Smooth Suction in the Operating Field to Ensure the Highest Possible Blood Integrity for Retransfusion Systems

Blood hemolysis caused by mechanical impact is a serious problem in medicine. In addition to the heart-lung machine (artificial surfaces, flow irritating connection points) which contributes to hemolysis, blood suction and surgical suction devices are influencing factors. Goal of our research is to develop best flow optimizing suction geometry that represents the best compromise between all influencing effects. Based on data that negative pressure and turbulence have a negative impact on blood components, 27 surgical suction tips have been examined for acoustic stress and negative pressure behavior. Furthermore, a dimensionless factor Q was introduced to assess the overall performance of the suction tips investigated.