Portable and Wall-mounted Suction
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A surgical suction unit is a medical device used in operating theatres, ICUs, and wards to remove fluids like blood, saliva, and other secretions from a patient's airway or a surgical site. It's operated by surgeons, anaesthetists, and nurses to maintain a clear operative field and prevent aspiration, directly impacting patient safety and surgical outcomes. These devices create negative pressure (a vacuum) that pulls fluids through sterile tubing into a collection canister. They range from small, portable units for emergency response and bedside use to large, high-power trolley-based systems that are a permanent fixture in an operating room.
Surgical suction unit prices in Nigeria range from NGN 250,000 - NGN 750,000 for portable, entry-level models to NGN 1,500,000 - NGN 4,000,000+ for high-vacuum, theatre-grade systems with advanced features. The final landed cost in your facility is driven by several factors beyond the sticker price. The brand reputation (e.g., Medela, Laerdal vs. a generic import) is a major driver, as are the core performance specifications like maximum vacuum power (kPa/mmHg) and flow rate (L/min).
Accessories like trolleys, different canister sizes, and specialized filters add to the cost. The total quote must also account for fluctuating foreign exchange rates (USD/EUR to NGN), international freight, customs clearance duties, and local delivery. A comprehensive quote should clearly itemize the unit cost, included accessories, warranty terms, and any charges for installation, calibration, and mandatory user training. Always demand a quote that breaks down these line items so you can see exactly what you are paying for.
For a detailed, line-item quote tailored to your facility's needs, contact Franance.
Entry-level, functional surgical suction units start from NGN 250,000 - NGN 450,000 for basic, portable electric models or refurbished units with minimal features. These units typically offer lower vacuum pressure and flow rates, making them suitable for simple bedside procedures but inadequate for demanding surgical environments like orthopaedics or trauma. They are often sold with a very limited "back-to-base" warranty of 3-6 months, meaning you are responsible for the cost and logistics of returning the unit for repairs.
Be aware of hidden costs. The cheapest offers almost never include a protective voltage stabilizer, on-site installation, or user training. You will have to budget separately for these essentials, along with the initial set of consumables like tubing and filters, which can quickly add another NGN 100,000 - NGN 200,000 to your initial outlay. The risk of early failure is also higher, potentially leaving a critical department without a functional unit.
Contact Franance to evaluate if a low-cost option truly meets your long-term operational needs.
An affordable, best-value surgical suction unit bundle, including a reliable mid-range unit, a dedicated voltage stabilizer, initial consumables, and on-site training, typically costs between NGN 800,000 and NGN 1,800,000. This approach focuses on total operational value rather than just the initial purchase price. By bundling a quality unit like a Drive DeVilbiss 7305 series or a similar mid-tier model with the necessary power protection and supplies from the start, you prevent predictable failures and costly downtime.
Investing in this bundled package can save your facility over 25% in the first 12 months. This saving comes from avoiding emergency repair costs (NGN 75,000+ per call-out), the operational cost of procedure cancellation due to equipment failure, and the inflated prices paid for last-minute consumable purchases. An affordable solution is one that works reliably from day one and doesn't generate unexpected bills.
Contact Franance to configure a value-focused bundle for your facility.
A new, mid-range surgical suction unit from a reputable brand costs between NGN 900,000 and NGN 2,500,000, while a certified refurbished unit of similar specification can be sourced for NGN 500,000 to NGN 1,200,000. The primary difference lies in warranty, lifecycle, and lead time. New units come with a full manufacturer's warranty of 12-24 months and the latest software/firmware, but may have a factory order lead time of 8-12 weeks if not in stock locally.
A professionally refurbished unit, sourced from a credible supplier, offers significant cost savings. However, the warranty is shorter (typically 6 months), and it may have minor cosmetic imperfections. The key is "certified" refurbishment, which means the unit was disassembled, cleaned, and had key components like pumps and seals replaced and calibrated. Lead times for refurbished units are often shorter as they are usually available in-country or from regional hubs.
| Feature | New Surgical Suction Unit | Certified Refurbished Surgical Suction Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 900k - 2.5M (Mid-range) | NGN 500k - 1.2M (Mid-range) |
| Warranty | 12-24 months | 6 months (typically) |
| Lead Time | 1-12 weeks | 1-4 weeks |
| Condition | Brand new, latest model | Professionally restored, may have cosmetic wear |
| Documentation | Full OEM documentation, calibration certificate | Refurbishment report, calibration certificate |
Contact Franance to explore the best new and certified refurbished options available for your budget.
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote on surgical suction units tailored to your clinical needs and budget.
Reputable suppliers are concentrated in medical hubs like Lagos (Ikeja, Lagos Island), Abuja (Wuse II), and Port Harcourt, but you must verify them beyond their physical address. The market has many traders who are simply box-movers with no technical capacity. A credible supplier is an established company with in-house, factory-trained biomedical engineers who can provide installation, training, and after-sales support.
Your verification process must be thorough. Start by confirming their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration. Next, demand proof of authorization from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to sell and service the equipment in Nigeria. Ask for references from at least two other Nigerian hospitals of similar size to yours and actually call them. A serious supplier will also have Goods-in-Transit insurance to protect your investment during delivery. Franance simplifies this by maintaining a network of pre-vetted suppliers who have already passed a rigorous verification workflow, including checks on their engineering capacity, spare parts inventory, and financial stability.
Let Franance connect you with verified, reliable suppliers who meet these stringent criteria.
Franance acts as a verified procurement partner, providing access to a network of pre-vetted suppliers and managing the entire process from sourcing to installation and after-sales support across Nigeria. We ensure that any supplier we recommend has already passed a comprehensive due diligence process, confirming their technical capabilities, financial stability, and commitment to service. This saves you the time and risk associated with vetting unknown vendors.
Our service goes beyond just making a connection. We manage the entire procurement lifecycle, ensuring you get transparent pricing, correct specifications, and a robust service agreement. We cover all major cities and remote locations, ensuring that no matter where your facility is, you receive the same high standard of service and support.
The best surgical suction units for top-tier Nigerian hospitals are high-vacuum, high-flow models like the Medela Dominant Flex or the Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU), which range from NGN 2,000,000 to NGN 4,500,000. These models are considered "best" because of their reliability, powerful performance in demanding surgeries (e.g., orthopaedic, cardiothoracic), and strong local support for parts and service.
The "best" unit is the one that safely and reliably meets your specific clinical demand without being over-specified. A teaching hospital theatre requires a high-performance machine, while a small clinic performing minor procedures does not.
Comparing models involves assessing vacuum range (e.g., -86 kPa vs -60 kPa), flow rate (e.g., 50 L/min vs 20 L/min), portability, and power source (AC/DC/battery) against your specific clinical needs, from general ward use to demanding cardiothoracic surgery. A high flow rate is critical for trauma and orthopaedics to clear the surgical field quickly, while a quieter, portable unit might be better for a neonatal ICU. You must also compare the cost and type of consumables—disposable vs. reusable canisters can significantly impact your long-term operational budget.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced | Teaching Hospitals, Specialist Surgery | Vacuum: >-85 kPa, Flow: >50 L/min, Dual canister | 8-12 weeks | Annual PM, OEM parts | 220V AC, requires dedicated stabilizer |
| Mid-Range | General Hospitals, Private Clinics | Vacuum: >-70 kPa, Flow: >25 L/min, Trolley/Portable | 2-6 weeks | Annual PM, local parts | 220V AC, requires stabilizer |
| Entry/Portable | Wards, Ambulances, NGOs | Vacuum: >-55 kPa, Flow: >15 L/min, Battery backup | 1-2 weeks | Bi-annual checks | AC/DC, internal battery |
Medela, Laerdal, and Drive DeVilbiss are considered top brands in Nigeria due to their proven reliability, robust build quality, and better availability of spare parts and local technical support compared to lesser-known brands. Medela, with models like the Dominant Flex and Vario series, is renowned for its quiet and durable piston/cylinder technology. Laerdal, particularly with its LSU, is the gold standard for emergency and pre-hospital care due to its ruggedness and self-test functionality. Drive DeVilbiss offers a strong balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for general hospitals and clinics.
Choosing one of these brands means you are more likely to find a qualified engineer in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt who can service the unit and source original spare parts. Cheaper, unknown brands often become unusable once a minor component fails because there is no support network in the country.
A typical price list would show ranges: Portable/Emergency Units (NGN 400,000 - 1,200,000), Ward/Clinic Trolley Units (NGN 800,000 - 2,000,000), and High-Performance Theatre Units (NGN 1,800,000 - 4,500,000+). These are guide prices and the final quote you receive will be specific to the configuration, accessories, and prevailing economic factors.
When you receive a quote, understand that the range reflects the "landed cost." For example, a unit priced at $2,000 from the factory will not cost you the direct Naira equivalent. The supplier must add costs for international shipping (5-10% of value), insurance (1-2%), customs duties and clearing in Lagos (15-25%), and their own margin. A sudden 10% depreciation in the Naira against the Dollar between the quote date and the payment date will directly impact the final price, which is why most quotes are valid for only 7-14 days.
The most decisive specifications are Maximum Vacuum (measured in kPa or mmHg, with >-80 kPa being ideal for theatre), Flow Rate (L/min, with >40 L/min needed for rapid evacuation), Canister Capacity (1-2 litres is standard), Power Source (AC/DC/Battery for versatility), and Noise Level (dB, lower is better for patient and staff comfort). A unit with a high vacuum but low flow rate will struggle to clear debris quickly, while a high flow rate with low vacuum may not be sufficient to aspirate thick secretions.
For example, a Medela Dominant Flex offers a high vacuum of -86 kPa and a selectable flow of 50 or 60 L/min, making it perfect for demanding surgeries. In contrast, a portable emergency unit might offer -55 kPa and 20 L/min, which is adequate for airway clearance but not for a major trauma case. Always match the specifications to your primary clinical application.
Installation is typically a 1-2 hour process involving unboxing, assembly of the trolley and canister holder, power connection, and function testing, costing between NGN 50,000 and NGN 150,000 if not included in the purchase price. A turnkey installation process, however, goes much further. It begins with a site readiness check to ensure you have a stable, properly earthed power outlet.
The supplier's engineer will then assemble the unit, connect it to a certified vacuum gauge to perform an initial calibration, and verify that it meets the manufacturer's performance specifications. The most critical part of the process is the user training, where the engineer demonstrates correct operation, cleaning procedures, and basic troubleshooting to your clinical and biomedical staff. A formal installation and training certificate should be signed by both parties before the job is considered complete.
Let Franance manage a complete turnkey installation, from site assessment and power validation to calibration and comprehensive staff training, ensuring your unit is fully operational from day one.
Delivery timelines for surgical suction units in Nigeria are 1-3 days for in-stock items and 6-12 weeks for factory orders, with costs varying from NGN 25,000 for local Lagos delivery to over NGN 200,000 for air freight and customs clearance for imported units. The logistics process for imported medical equipment is complex. The supplier must handle international freight, secure foreign exchange for payment, and navigate Nigerian Customs Service procedures at the port of entry (usually Apapa in Lagos or Port Harcourt).
This process involves securing necessary permits like the SONCAP (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme) before shipment and handling clearance with NAFDAC upon arrival. Delays are common. Once cleared, inland logistics to your facility must be managed, with risks of damage on poor roads. Ensure your supplier has comprehensive Goods-in-Transit insurance that covers the journey all the way to your hospital door, not just to the port.
Standard warranty is 12 months on new units, covering parts and labour, while service level agreements (SLAs) for post-warranty support cost 10-15% of the unit's value annually. It is critical to understand the difference between an OEM warranty and a vendor warranty. An OEM warranty is backed by the manufacturer, while a vendor warranty is only as good as the local supplier providing it. Always clarify who is responsible for honouring the warranty terms.
A good SLA should specify a guaranteed response time (e.g., 48 hours for an engineer to be on-site) and include at least one preventive maintenance visit per year. This visit should involve checking the pump performance, replacing seals and filters, and recalibrating the vacuum gauge. Ask if the supplier has a strategy for spare parts; a serious vendor will keep common failure parts (like motors, gaskets, and filters) in stock in Nigeria to minimize your downtime.
Refurbished surgical suction units are available from NGN 500,000 to NGN 1,200,000 and typically come from specialist refurbishers in Europe or the US, offering a 40-60% saving compared to new. These are not simply "used" or "second-hand" machines. A professionally refurbished unit has been cosmetically and functionally restored to meet original manufacturer specifications. This process includes stripping the unit down, replacing worn components like pumps, seals, and batteries, and performing a full calibration.
When considering a refurbished unit, demand the refurbishment report. This document details exactly what work was done and which parts were replaced. The unit should come with at least a 6-month warranty. While you save money upfront, be aware that you might have more difficulty finding spare parts for older models, so it's crucial to buy from a supplier who can support the unit for at least a few years.
To verify authenticity, check the serial number directly with the manufacturer's website or their official African representative, and scrutinize the quality of packaging, manuals, and the unit's finish for signs of counterfeiting. Counterfeit medical devices are a serious risk, often failing under pressure and endangering patients. The most obvious red flag is a price that is "too good to be true" – a supposed new Medela unit offered at 50% of the typical market price is almost certainly fake or stolen.
Look for poor quality printing on the labels and in the user manual, misspellings, and a flimsy build quality. An original unit will have a professionally finished casing, clear markings, and a unique serial number that can be validated. Always buy from the manufacturer's authorized distributor in Nigeria. If you have any doubts, contact the OEM's regional office (often in South Africa or UAE) to confirm the legitimacy of the local supplier.
Essential accessories include suction tubing, canisters (reusable or disposable), bacterial filters, and various suction catheters/tips, with a starter pack costing between NGN 50,000 and NGN 150,000. The availability and cost of these consumables are critical to the long-term usability of your suction unit. Before purchasing the main unit, confirm that the supplier has a reliable stock of its proprietary consumables, or that the unit is compatible with standard, widely available accessories.
The best strategy is to bundle the purchase of the main unit with a one-year supply of essential consumables. This not only ensures you are not left scrambling for supplies but also allows you to negotiate a better price and save on separate shipping costs. Reusable, autoclavable canisters are more cost-effective in the long run but require a functioning sterilization department (CSSD).
Most surgical suction units require a standard 220-240V, 50Hz supply, but due to power instability in Nigeria, a 1.5kVA to 2kVA voltage stabilizer or a true sine wave UPS with at least 30 minutes of backup is mandatory. Connecting the unit directly to the wall outlet is a recipe for disaster. The voltage fluctuations from the grid (NEPA/PHCN) and surges from generators can destroy the unit's sensitive electronic components and motor, voiding your warranty.
A servo-motor voltage stabilizer is the minimum requirement to provide a consistent 230V supply. For critical applications like in the operating theatre or ICU, a true sine wave UPS is better. It not only stabilizes the voltage but also provides battery backup, ensuring the suction continues to work for a period even during a complete power outage, giving your generator time to kick in. Proper electrical earthing at the socket is also a critical and often overlooked safety requirement.
To be compliant, your surgical suction unit must have a NAFDAC registration number if imported, and the supplier should provide a certificate of calibration traceable to national standards, with SON conformity being a plus for quality assurance. NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) regulates the import and use of medical devices to ensure they are safe and effective. Your supplier is responsible for ensuring the device they sell you is registered.
For quality management and accreditation purposes, your facility must maintain a compliance dossier for each device. This should include the purchase invoice, NAFDAC certificate, installation report, calibration certificate, and a log of all maintenance activities. During any hospital accreditation audit, you will be required to produce this documentation to prove the device is safe, properly maintained, and fit for clinical use.
Financing options include bank loans (requiring 20-30% equity, with interest rates of 25-35%), asset leasing, or specialized healthcare financing like that offered by Franance, which can provide more flexible terms. Traditional bank loans for medical equipment can be slow, often taking 2-3 months for approval, and require significant collateral beyond the equipment itself.
Leasing is an alternative where you pay a monthly fee to use the equipment for a set period (e.g., 3 years), after which you may have the option to buy, return, or upgrade it. This converts a large capital expenditure (CAPEX) into a predictable operational expenditure (OPEX). Franance offers tailored financing solutions designed for the healthcare sector, with faster approval times and structures that align with your facility's cash flow, making it easier to acquire critical equipment without depleting your capital.
The 5-year Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a mid-range NGN 1.5M surgical suction unit is approximately NGN 2.8M - NGN 3.5M, factoring in the initial purchase, annual servicing, power protection, and replacement of consumables like filters and tubing. Simply looking at the purchase price is misleading. A cheaper machine that requires frequent repairs and uses expensive proprietary consumables can end up costing far more over its lifespan than a more expensive but reliable unit.
Your 5-year TCO breakdown would look something like this:
This calculation shows that post-purchase costs can almost double the initial investment.
For a tertiary hospital environment, you need a high-performance, durable, mains-powered trolley unit like the Medela Dominant Flex. Key specifications must include a maximum vacuum of at least -85 kPa and a high flow rate of over 50 L/min to handle demanding procedures in trauma, orthopaedics, and cardiothoracic surgery. It should feature a dual canister system to allow for quick changeover during long procedures and be built with a robust, easy-to-clean casing to withstand the high traffic of a busy operating theatre.
A mid-sized private clinic requires a versatile and reliable unit that balances performance with cost. A trolley-based or robust portable model like the Drive DeVilbiss Vacu-Aide QSU or a Medela Vario 18 is ideal. It should provide a vacuum of at least -70 kPa and a flow rate of 25-30 L/min, which is sufficient for general surgery, obstetrics, and outpatient procedures. Look for models with simple controls, easy-to-change canisters, and a relatively quiet operation to ensure patient comfort.
NGOs and mobile clinics need a portable, rugged, and battery-powered surgical suction unit. The Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU) is the benchmark in this category. It is built to withstand rough handling and unpredictable environments. Essential features include a robust internal battery with a long run-time (at least 45 minutes), the ability to run off a vehicle's 12V DC power, a self-check function to ensure it's always ready, and a lightweight design for easy transport.
For critical care areas like the ER, OT, and ICU, suction units must be immediately available and highly reliable. In the theatre, a high-performance unit (as described for tertiary hospitals) is essential. For the ICU and ER, a combination is best: a powerful trolley unit for the resuscitation bay and several portable, battery-backed units like the LSU or Medela Vario for bedside use and patient transport. The key is instant readiness and sufficient power for airway management and emergency procedures.
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A new surgical suction unit in Nigeria costs between NGN 250,000 and NGN 1,500,000. A portable model like the Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU) is at the lower end, while a high-capacity theatre unit like the Medela Dominant Flex can exceed NGN 1,200,000. Your choice depends on the required flow rate and canister capacity for procedures like general surgery or liposuction.
You can buy surgical suction units from verified medical equipment suppliers in Ikeja and on Lagos Island. Companies like JNC International and DCL Laboratory Products are known distributors for brands like Medela and Atmos. Always request proof of brand authorization to avoid counterfeit products that fail under pressure and lack warranty support from the original manufacturer.
A refurbished surgical suction unit typically costs between NGN 150,000 and NGN 600,000 in Nigeria. The price depends on the brand, condition, and warranty offered. For example, a refurbished Medela Basic 30 can be sourced for around NGN 400,000. Ensure the supplier provides at least a 6-month warranty and a certificate of calibration before you purchase.
You must check the maximum vacuum pressure (mmHg), flow rate (L/min), and canister capacity (litres). A general surgery unit like the Atmos C 361 offers up to 90 L/min, while a portable emergency unit may only provide 25 L/min. Also, verify the noise level (dB) and whether it has overflow protection, which is critical for preventing motor damage.
You can finance a high-capacity suction unit through asset financing companies that specialize in medical equipment. For instance, Franance allows you to acquire a model like the Medela Dominant Flex by spreading the cost over 12 to 36 months. This frees up your capital for other operational needs while you get the equipment immediately. The process typically requires your CAC documents and bank statements.
A portable suction unit is designed for mobility and emergency use, featuring a compact build and a battery, like the SSCOR Duet which runs for 60 minutes. A theatre unit, such as the Medela Dominant Flex, is larger, more powerful with higher flow rates (over 60 L/min), and runs on mains power for prolonged surgical procedures. It often includes a trolley for easy movement within the operating room.
First, check for blockages in the tubing and ensure the canister lid is sealed tightly, as this is the most common issue. On a unit like the Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU), verify that the vacuum regulator is set to the correct level. If the problem persists after checking these, the internal pump filter may be clogged and require replacement by a qualified biomedical engineer.
Choose a supplier with a physical office, a biomedical engineering department, and official distributorship for the brands they sell. Ask for references from hospitals in Port Harcourt or Kano that have purchased from them. A reliable supplier will offer installation, training, and a minimum 12-month warranty on new equipment like an Atmos surgical suction unit.
Most surgical suction units require a standard 220-240V, 50Hz AC power supply. It is critical to connect high-performance theatre models, like the Medela Dominant Flex, to a dedicated power outlet with a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) of at least 1.5kVA. This protects the motor from the frequent power fluctuations experienced in many Nigerian cities and prevents costly repairs.
A new unit is better if your budget allows, as it comes with a full manufacturer's warranty and the latest technology. However, a certified refurbished unit from a reputable supplier is a cost-effective alternative for a new clinic. A refurbished Medela Basic 30 can offer reliable performance for 60-70% of the cost of a new one, but ensure it includes at least a 6-month warranty.
A surgical suction unit requires annual preventive maintenance by a certified biomedical engineer. This service includes checking the pump's vacuum pressure, inspecting seals and gaskets, and replacing the hydrophobic filter. For a high-usage unit like the Atmos C 361 in a busy Lagos theatre, a bi-annual check is recommended to ensure consistent performance and prevent unexpected failures during surgery.
The most commonly replaced parts are the hydrophobic/bacterial filter, suction tubing, and canister lid gaskets. The filter, which prevents fluid from entering the pump, should be changed every 1-3 months or immediately if it gets wet. On a model like the Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU), keeping spare filters and tubing in stock is essential for uninterrupted service.
Yes, you need SONCAP certification from the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to import surgical suction units. This ensures the device meets basic safety and quality standards. While NAFDAC registration is not typically required for non-drug emitting devices like suction units, your clearing agent will need the SONCAP certificate to clear the equipment at the port in Apapa.
Installation and setup of a new theatre suction unit, like a Medela Dominant Flex, typically takes 1-2 hours. This involves unboxing, assembling the trolley, connecting the canisters and tubing, and performing a power-on test. The supplier's engineer should also conduct a 30-minute training session for your theatre nurses on proper operation, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting.
The Yuwell 7A-23D is a very affordable and popular option for small clinics in Nigeria, costing between NGN 180,000 and NGN 300,000. It provides adequate suction power for minor procedures and general use. While not as robust as premium brands like Medela, it offers a good balance of price and functionality for facilities with limited budgets and lower surgical caseloads.
Excessive noise often indicates a problem with the motor bearings or a loose pump assembly. First, ensure the unit is on a stable, level surface. If the rattling or grinding noise persists on your Atmos C 361, power it down immediately and call a biomedical engineer. Continuing to use it can lead to complete motor failure, which is a much more expensive repair.
You must empty the canister after each use and rinse it thoroughly with water. Then, disinfect it by soaking in a hospital-grade disinfectant solution, like 0.5% chlorine solution, for at least 10 minutes. For a reusable canister from a Medela unit, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for autoclaving if applicable. Never let fluids dry inside, as this creates a serious infection risk.
Yes, you can lease a surgical suction unit, which is a good option to conserve capital. Leasing providers in Nigeria can offer a high-end model like the Medela Dominant Flex for a fixed monthly fee over 24-48 months. This often includes maintenance and service in the contract. It's ideal for large hospitals in Abuja or Port Harcourt managing extensive equipment inventories and operational budgets.
For most general surgical procedures, a suction pressure range of -80 mmHg to -200 mmHg is sufficient. However, for procedures requiring higher suction, like orthopedic or liposuction, you may need up to -500 mmHg. A versatile unit like the Medela Dominant Flex allows the surgeon to precisely adjust the vacuum level according to the specific needs of the procedure, preventing tissue damage.
Verify a supplier by checking their CAC registration, requesting their physical address for a visit, and asking for official distributorship letters from the equipment manufacturers. For example, if they claim to sell Laerdal products, ask for their authorization certificate from Laerdal. Also, request references from other hospitals they have supplied to. A legitimate supplier will provide all this information readily.
The most likely cause is that the rechargeable battery has reached the end of its lifespan, typically after 2-3 years of use. For a unit like the Laerdal Suction Unit (LSU), you can order a replacement battery pack from a certified supplier. Do not attempt to use a non-original battery, as it can damage the device's charging circuit or pose a fire hazard.
Your theatre nurses and technicians need training on three key areas: setting the correct vacuum level, changing canisters and tubing aseptically, and performing daily checks. The supplier should provide a 30-60 minute hands-on session covering the specific functions of your new model, like the overflow protection mechanism on an Atmos C 361. Document this training for all relevant staff.
The essential consumables are suction catheters of various sizes, sterile connecting tubing, bacterial/hydrophobic filters, and collection canisters (or disposable liners). For a high-throughput theatre, budget for monthly replacement of filters and tubing. Stocking these items is critical; running out mid-procedure is a significant clinical risk. Order them from your original equipment supplier to ensure compatibility.
Overflow protection uses a float valve or a hydrophobic filter to automatically shut off suction when the collection canister is full. This prevents fluid from being drawn into the pump motor, which would cause catastrophic and expensive damage. Models like the Medela Dominant Flex have a dual-protection system, making them highly reliable for long procedures where canisters might fill unexpectedly.
No, it is not recommended and is against best practice infection control standards. Each operating theatre should have its own dedicated surgical suction unit. Sharing units between theatres significantly increases the risk of cross-contamination. Investing in a dedicated unit like a Medela Basic 30 for each room is a critical patient safety measure.
The standard warranty period for a new surgical suction unit from a reputable brand like Medela or Atmos is 12 months. Some suppliers may offer an extended 24-month warranty. This warranty should cover parts and labour for any manufacturing defects. Ensure you receive a formal warranty card or certificate from the supplier upon purchase, as you will need it for any claims.
First, check if the power cord is securely plugged into both the unit and a working wall socket. Test the socket with another device. Next, check the unit's fuse, which is usually located near the power inlet. If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same rating. If the unit, like a Yuwell 7A-23D, still doesn't power on, it requires assessment by a biomedical engineer.
Yes, the vacuum gauge on a surgical suction unit should be calibrated annually to ensure its accuracy. Inaccurate readings can lead to the application of dangerously high or ineffective low pressure during surgery. A biomedical engineer uses a calibrated digital pressure meter to verify and adjust the unit's gauge, providing a calibration certificate for your hospital's records.
The suction tubing should be secured to the surgical drapes with a non-perforating clamp to prevent it from falling onto the floor or contaminating the sterile field. Ensure there is enough slack to allow the surgeon free movement. After the procedure, the tubing is considered clinical waste and must be disposed of according to your facility's infection control protocols.
Yes, you can procure multiple units for a hospital expansion project using a financing service like Franance. This allows you to bundle the purchase of several high-end models, such as five Medela Dominant Flex units, into a single financing agreement. This approach preserves your capital for construction and staffing while ensuring your new theatres are fully equipped from day one.