Surgimedics offers both single-use and multiple-use in-line filters. The multiple-use filter is an all day in-line filter. These filters are used with either ¼” or 3/8” hospital tubing and are placed within the wall suction system to protect against corrosion of the suction pipes and building contamination.
While a smoke evacuator with a highly efficient filter is the recommended method of providing optimal protection from surgical smoke, in-line filters are effective in removing small amounts of surgical smoke created during laser and electrosurgical procedures. When a hospital decides to make use of an existing wall suction system as a method of smoke evacuation and filtration, the in-line filter must only be used for small amounts of smoke since the suction line typically generates 2 cubic feet per minute of air flow (cfm). A typical smoke evacuator moves air at a flow rate of 35 to 50 cfm.
Placement of the in-line filter is also an important consideration, especially if the surgical procedure produces fluids that will be suctioned. In this case, the in-line filter should be placed between the suction canister and the wall connection. This will prevent the filter media from getting wet, and consequently, decrease the filter’s efficiency. |
